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“RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE ARKANSAS EASTMAN FACILITY” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Labor was published in the Senate section on pages S6879 on June 16, 2004.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE ARKANSAS EASTMAN FACILITY
Mr. PRYOR. Mr. President, I am pleased to have the opportunity to bring to the attention of the Senate very good news about the work of some of my constituents. The Arkansas Eastman facility of Brock Service Painting Company, located in Batesville, AR, has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration as a ``Star'' site under OSHA's Voluntary Protection Program. The OSHA Voluntary Protection Program recognizes exemplary safety and health efforts demonstrated by company management and employees in a cooperative effort to promote safe and healthy practices in the work environment.
As you can imagine, I am extremely proud of the accomplishments of these Arkansas workers and their managers. The significance of their achievement is underscored when you take into account that since 1982, out of 6.2 million potential sites, only 1,041 sites have been recognized for their efforts in the Voluntary Protection Program. Moreover, only 20 contractors have been selected to receive the prestigious ``Star'' award.
Not only have employees of the Arkansas Eastman facility maintained a safe work environment and adhered to safe work practices, but they also have consistently exceeded the regulatory requirements established by OSHA. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, sites participating in the Voluntary Protection Program have overall lost-workday, and injury and illness rates 60 percent below their industries' averages.
The dedication and hard work of these employees are credits to themselves, their company, their family and neighbors in Batesville, and the people of Arkansas. I am happy to recognize their achievements and to salute this notable accomplishment here in the U.S. Senate.
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