Unit VPP teams progress, prepare for audit

Published July 6, 2009
By Brandice J. Armstrong
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The Voluntary Protection Program is in full swing at Tinker. Since base safety officials first introduced its principles nearly three years ago, seven units have adopted the program and continually improve their work spaces. They are also preparing for an upcoming audit.

Designed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, VPP encourages employees to brainstorm and practice safety to reduce the number of work-related injuries and illnesses.

"VPP is not just about talking and tracking metrics, it is about taking action and reaping the benefits of open communication throughout the workplace," said Col. John Harris, 76th Maintenance Wing vice commander.

The practice of VPP within the Air Force began in 2006 when then-Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld mandated the Air Force participate in the program. Nine installations, including Tinker, were selected to pioneer the idea.

Since then, the program has gained fans within several units.

"VPP is the opportunity for employees to become actively involved in their own safety and health," said Carol Murray, member of the 72nd Air Base Wing VPP Team, who has been involved with the program since December 2007. "Why not practice it at Tinker; we have the opportunity to make a positive change in the culture of the work force, both military and civilian, as well as contractors."

Robert Roche Jr., Union VPP steward for the Combined Wing and OC-ALC Staff Team, agreed.

"Tinker is not immune to the impacts of injuring our employees," said Mr. Roche, who has been involved in the program for the past two-and-a-half years. "How can we maintain our spot on the industry playing field if we allow our folks to get hurt while performing their duties?"

Other units that participate in the VPP program include the 76th Aircraft Maintenance Group, 76th Propulsion Maintenance Group, 76th Software Maintenance Group, 76th Maintenance Support Group and 76th MXW Staff Offices. To help keep Tinker's work areas safe, VPP members brainstorm ideas that will protect personnel, yet still allow them do perform their jobs in an efficient manner. Plans may range from taking an employee's suggestion to fix malfunctioning equipment or finding a better way to complete a task.

"VPP offers the work force an opportunity to have a significant say in the safety and health processes here at Tinker," said Mr. Roche. "VPP gives every employee a trump card when safety and health concerns are being ignored."

To ensure Tinker's VPP programs remain on the right track, an Air Force Materiel Command mock audit and OSHA site visit will take place in mid-August.

Ms. Murray said during the audit and site visit, AFMC and OSHA officials will conduct interviews and visit shops looking for leadership commitment and employee involvement in the program.

Following the audit and visit, Ms. Murray said units hope they receive VPP's highest honor, "Star program status," meaning OSHA praises the units' efforts to achieve and maintain a safe and healthy worksite.