76th MXSG prepares for VPP Star status

Published June 3, 2011
By Brandice J. O'Brien
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Officials from the 76th Maintenance Support Group said their organization has a firm grasp on the importance of safety. It began well before the implementation of the Voluntary Protection Program; but since adopting it, personnel have set their sights on an aggressive goal.

Group officials said they want to achieve the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's "Star" site honor, a status which means the 76th MXSG is recognized as a safe and healthy worksite.

"Our people are thinking safety," said Harold Davis, 76th MXSG VPP coordinator. "We preach 'practice safety at work, practice safety at home.' If you get injured at home, we still lose you at work."

Joseph Cecrle, 76th Maintenance Support Squadron director, agreed.

"The workers themselves are very proactive," he said. "It's not me requiring safe work so much, but rather having a culture of safety."

Despite the group's go-getter attitude, officials said they want more participation; it's essential for achieving Star status. To do that, personnel will remain positive, reinforce the benefits of a safety-first culture and use communication tools -- newsletters, meetings, computer-based training and face-to-face chats. They are already showing promise.

After all, the 76th MXSG is different from other 76th Maintenance Wing organizations in that most personnel are not assigned to the same industrial shop day after day.

"I can't just walk over into their shop and do an inspection to make sure everything is safe," Mr. Cecrle said. "I have to rely on the workers to identify safety challenges and risks."

Not only are personnel taking charge of recognizing and reporting hazards, but they are leading VPP meetings, taking notes, following the progress of action items and making their management proud.

"It has been a fabulous effort getting that engagement," Mr. Cecrle said.

It's making a difference.

Both the group's three-year average and current Total Case Incident Rate and Days Away, Restricted, Transferred rates echo Mr. Cecrle's sentiments. Additionally, both rates are below the industry standard.

Furthermore, the current TCIR and DART rates are well below the fiscal 2011 goals. Since the Air Force began leasing the former General Motors plant from Oklahoma County and the 76th MXSG started tear down and installation in Bldg. 9001, there have been few minor incidents, but no major accidents or injuries, officials said.

Before the maintenance support group can acquire Star status, it must also host a visit for its mentor, Valero Energy Corporation, an independent petroleum refiner and marketer. During the visit, Valero will evaluate the 76th MXSG's practices and environment to determine if the group is ready for OSHA's inspection.

Mr. Davis said the group plans to schedule the mock audit for August or September.