06.30.2009
Longview Power Contractor Earns Top OSHA Safety Honor
June 30, 2009 — Maidsville, WV — The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today announced that it has certified the Longview Power Project as a Star member, the highest level in its prestigious Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP).
OSHA Deputy Regional Administrator Edward Selker recognized the project at a special ceremony held at the Longview facility. Aker Construction Inc. is the primary contractor for the 695 (net) MW coal-fired power station being built in Maidsville, WV. "Since construction began on the Longview Power Project, Aker Construction has shown leadership in workplace safety and health by maintaining an injury and illness rate 59 percent below comparable industry rates," said Selker.
The Longview Power Project, located six miles north of Morgantown, WV, began construction in February 2007 and is scheduled for completion in 2011. The site covers more than 300 acres with about 1,800 workers expected to be onsite during peak construction. Longview Power, which is owned by GenPower Holdings, L.P., will be one of the cleanest coal-fired power plants in the United States.
VPP promotes effective worksite-based safety and health, encouraging management, labor, and OSHA to establish cooperative relationships at workplaces that have implemented a comprehensive safety and health management system. Approval into VPP is OSHA’s official recognition of the outstanding efforts of employers and employees who have achieved exemplary occupational safety and health. “Star” certification is the pinnacle classification for VPP participation.
Aker Construction first initiated VPP Star application in March 2008 to ensure optimal worker safety and establish a partnership with OSHA. The approval process included a review of Aker Construction’s management commitment and employee involvement with safety programs, a worksite analysis, hazard prevention and control measures, and safety and health training plans. The company submitted documents to support these criteria and hosted a four-day onsite tour by government officials, a detailed document review, and both formal and informal interviews.
“We are extremely proud of this accomplishment,” said Bruce Kingsbury, Aker Construction’s Vice President of HSE. “It signals our people’s belief in the highest priority for worker health and safety. Aker Construction is committed to maintaining this status by keeping average reportable incident rates below the national average and continuing to develop best practices and innovative safety procedures throughout the plant’s construction.”
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, 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 working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.
About GenPower Holdings, L.P.
GenPower Holdings, L.P. is a joint venture of GenPower management and First Reserve, a leading global private equity firm. The joint venture was formed in October 2006 to pursue the development, acquisition and operation of power generation facilities in the United States and abroad. Longview Power is the first major investment by the joint venture. GenPower's management team includes power industry veterans who have extensive experience in power project development, finance, construction and operations. For more information on GenPower Holdings and Longview Power, please visit our website at www.genpower.net.
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