UniFirst's Owensboro Facility Achieves Major Safety Awards
UniFirst Corporation (NYSE: UNF), a North American leader in providing tailored business uniform programs, facility service products, and first aid and safety services, proudly announces significant safety achievements by its Owensboro Distribution and Fulfillment Center. This facility has been awarded OSHA's Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Star certification and the prestigious Governor's Safety and Health Award, demonstrating excellence in workplace safety and health practices.
Safety Milestones and Recognition
The VPP Star certification is OSHA's highest accolade awarded to organizations that exhibit an outstanding commitment to workplace safety. The Governor's Safety and Health Award acknowledges businesses that have surpassed 1,000,000 hours without a lost time incident, emphasizing their dedication to a positive safety culture. UniFirst's Owensboro location has successfully achieved this remarkable safety benchmark four times, previously recognized in 2010, 2020, and 2022, reaffirming the company’s unwavering pursuit of safety and operational excellence.
Team Effort and Dedication to Safety
"Our dedicated Team Partners are the reason we've been able to achieve these incredible safety milestones," stated Michael Gunter, Safety Engineer at UniFirst—Owensboro. "Success in safety doesn't occur by chance; it stems from ongoing efforts, cooperative teamwork, and a shared belief in the importance of our safety initiatives. Whether we are identifying potential hazards, conducting audits, or developing innovative safety practices, every Team Partner plays an essential role in ensuring our collective safety."
The Rigorous VPP Certification Process
The VPP certification process necessitates intensive evaluations and comprehensive on-site audits performed by Kentucky OSHA experts. Moreover, employee surveys are conducted to validate the strong safety-first culture within the organization. Achieving over 1,000,000 hours worked without a lost time incident reflects adherence to stringent safety protocols and a cooperative approach toward maintaining workplace safety. These accolades act as critical milestones for UniFirst, illustrating its proactive measures in safety and commitment to safeguarding its workforce.
Creating a Culture of Safety
"Receiving the Governor's Safety and Health Award for the fourth time illustrates how deeply rooted safety is in our operations," noted Kerry Bailey, Human Resource Manager at UniFirst—Owensboro. "Our goal is to foster an environment where each employee feels empowered to prioritize safety. Achieving this level of recognition once again highlights the hard work and determination of every Owensboro Team Partner."
Ongoing Improvements and Expansion Plans
Additionally, the Owensboro facility is committed to continuous improvement through ongoing bi-weekly plant audits, quarterly evaluations across 25 operational areas, and active participation from Team Partners. These strategies have established UniFirst as a leader in workplace safety standards, setting a benchmark not only across North America but specifically in Kentucky.
These safety accomplishments coincide with UniFirst's groundbreaking of a significant 109,000-square-foot expansion project at the Owensboro Distribution Center. This expansion aims to increase the facility's total area to nearly half a million square feet—an initiative that has garnered recognition and support from local government officials. Collectively, these safety awards and infrastructure initiatives exemplify UniFirst's ongoing commitment to investing in its people and enhancing its operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What awards has UniFirst's Owensboro facility achieved?
UniFirst's Owensboro facility has received OSHA's VPP Star certification and the Governor's Safety and Health Award for outstanding safety practices.
How many times has the Owensboro facility received these awards?
The facility has been honored with the Governor's Safety and Health Award four times, in 2010, 2020, 2022, and most recently.
What does the VPP Star certification signify?
The VPP Star certification represents the highest recognition from OSHA for organizations demonstrating exceptional safety and health measures in the workplace.
Who is responsible for UniFirst's safety initiatives?
Safety initiatives at UniFirst are the result of collective efforts by dedicated Team Partners who actively engage in identifying hazards and implementing safety measures.
What ongoing practices contribute to the safety culture at UniFirst?
UniFirst employs bi-weekly plant audits, quarterly evaluations, and active participation from Team Partners to maintain a robust safety culture.
