The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has designated Sherwin-Williams Co. in Coffeyville, KS., as a Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) merit site for meeting or exceeding workplace safety and health standards.

Sherwin-Williams, which employs 25 workers in Coffeyville, manufactures, packages and distributes rust and smoke inhibitors, flame retardants and mineral oil de-foamers. The company earned VPP recognition following a comprehensive onsite inspection and evaluation by a team of OSHA safety and health experts.

"Sherwin-Williams in Coffeyville has shown it is deeply committed to providing a safe and healthful workplace," said Charles E. Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City, Mo. "The company's proactive approach toward safety is a model for others to follow."

OSHA's recognition programs include the VPP for employers and employees who have implemented exemplary workplace safety and health management systems. In the VPP, management, labor and OSHA work cooperatively and proactively to prevent injuries, illnesses and workplace hazards.