The Oklahoma Department of Labor (ODOL) is offering local businesses free access to the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) as a part of the state’s available Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) consultation services. This program improves employee wellness in the workplace and helps businesses reduce worker’s compensation insurance costs.
Employers achieving SHARP status have demonstrated proficiency in safety and health programs related to employee safety, company culture, reputation, and cost savings.
“Across the entire state of Oklahoma, with the thousands of employers that exist, currently we have 19 companies that are SHARP certified,” said Kenneth Bond, ODOL Safety and Health consultant.
Businesses already in the ODOL’s OSHA Consultation Service Program are eligible to apply for the certification. Employers that have been in business for more than a year, with less than 250 employees, at a fixed worksite and less than 500 employees nationwide are also eligible.
Employers looking to receive the SHARP certification must request a SHARP full-service safety and health consultation and correct all identified safety and health hazards. Companies that meet all requirements experience fewer injuries, employee illness, and have lower workers’ compensation costs and insurance premiums.
Cookshack, in Ponca City, Okla., renewed its SHARP certification in 2021. “Getting SHARP certified was a huge cost savings for us. Our workers’ comp rate actually has dropped $40,000 a year,” said Stuart Powell, President/CEO.
Worksites that receive SHARP recognition are exempt from Federal OSHA scheduled inspections for up to one or two years. The SHARP certification also exempts businesses from Federal OSHA scheduled inspections for the duration of the certification.
ODOL is responsible for ensuring local businesses provide a safe work environment. Partnering with local companies for safety training helps protect the business and its employees. For more information on how a business can become SHARP certified or information regarding ODOL’s OSHA Consultation Service Program contact Jason Hudson, OSHA Consultation Director, at 405-521-6100 or watch this information video:
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Company Name: Oklahoma Department of Labor
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Country: United States
Website: https://oklahoma.gov/labor.html
