OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) awards “Star” status to facilities with comprehensive safety and health management systems and superior records of workplace safety. Companies work with OSHA to pursue, achieve and maintain Star status.

At Sherwin-Williams, participation in the program is a reflection of a company-wide commitment to occupational safety and health. Certified industrial hygienists help design and administer the program. The Chicago plant was the first U.S. paint manufacturing facility to obtain Star status. Today, they have two dozen VPP Star or Merit sites in the U.S., more than any other coatings company. That includes 18 manufacturing sites and 6 distribution centers.

Manufacturers like Sherwin-Williams go the extra mile on workplace safety because they recognize their workers are their most valuable asset, and that safe workplaces are an essential part of a sound business strategy. Modeling those values, Sherwin-Williams is now celebrating its 145th anniversary as a U.S. manufacturer.