Pro-Tec Coating Co., Leipsic, Ohio, has received the highest honor for voluntary worker protection programs from the U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

It is the first company in the metal coating and allied services industrial classification to achieve "Star" status in OSHA's prestigious Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).

OSHA praised Pro-Tec for providing excellent technology, resources and training for all of its 230 employees. "This award is fitting testament to the cooperation between OSHA and this company in developing a safe workplace," said OSHA Regional Administrator Michael G. Connors, Chicago. "The real pay-off is that working men and women employed by Pro-Tec are far more secure in knowing they will go home safe after a day's work."

Reflecting the superior performance of other companies that have achieved membership in the Voluntary Protection Programs, Pro-Tec Coating's injury and illness rates are now 80% below the workplace average for metal coating and allied services firms.

Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's workers by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual improvement in workplace safety and health.