Simmons Manufacturing Co. in Hazelton, Pennsylvania has been certified as a "star" worksite, garnering the highest honor in OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Programs, according to an OSHA press release.

"Simmons Manufacturing has demonstrated a firm commitment to ensuring a safe and healthful work environment for employees, making it most deserving of this honor," said Mark Stelmack, the director of OSHA's Wilkes-Barre Area Office, who attended the certification ceremony.

Simmons produces more than 500 models of mattresses for residential, commercial and government customers.

The Voluntary Protection Programs recognize employers and workers in private industry and federal agencies that have implemented effective safety and health management systems, and maintain injury and illness rates below national Bureau of Labor Statistics averages for their respective industries. In the VPP, management, labor and OSHA work cooperatively and proactively to prevent fatalities, injuries and illnesses through hazard prevention and control, worksite analysis, training, management commitment and worker involvement. For information on VPP and other cooperative programs, visit http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/compliance_assistance/index_programs.html.