OSHA announces VPP expansion under ‘self-audit’ program

Washington — OSHA will expand its Voluntary Protection Programs as part of the Department of Labor’s new “self-audit” initiative for regulated employers.

“OSHA is expanding its [VPP] to meet businesses where they are on their safety journey to help develop strong safety programs and lower injury rates, allowing them to undergo regular self-evaluations and avoid routine inspections,” a July 24 press release from DOL states.

OSHA will continue to “support voluntary compliance” via its free On-Site Consultation Program, which offers no-cost and confidential safety and health services to small and medium-sized businesses.

“Self-audits are one of the most effective ways to build a culture of compliance and trust,” Deputy Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling said in the release. “These programs are designed to give employers, unions and benefit plan officials the tools they need to correct potential violations proactively. By empowering the regulated community with clarity and collaboration, we are continuing to fulfill [DOL’s] mission to put both workers and employers first.”