VOLUNTARY PROTECTION PROGRAMS

 

The purpose of the Voluntary Protection Programs is to emphasize the importance, promote the improvement, and acknowledge the excellence of the occupational safety and health programs provided by employers with the employees’ active participation. 

 

The Puerto Rico Occupational Safety and Health Administration (PR OSHA), through its Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) acknowledges those companies which have implemented comprehensive occupational safety and health management systems and programs that have reduced significantly the injuries and illnesses rates in the workplace.  The companies whose VPP participation is approved, must comply with all the pertinent occupational safety and health standards, and have a safety and health program in operation.  PR OSHA will verify its qualifications, remove participants from the lists of programmed inspections, provide the necessary technical support, investigate accidents and complaints, and evalute its programs.   The participation in the VPP does not diminish the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, also known as Act No. 16 of August 5, 1975, as amended.

 

Participation in the VPP shows employees and the community that the participating company is a leader in the field of occupational safety and health, and that it has implemented a successful, high-quality program.

 

There are three VPP categories:  Guanín, Cemí, and Taíno.

			The Guanin Program is designed for worksites that have implemented comprehensive and successful safety and health management systems.  Companies under this program have achieved injury and illness rates at or below the national average for their type of industry. These participants are self-sufficient in their ability to control hazards in the workplace.  Guanin participants are re-evaluated onsite every 3 to 5 years, with annual injury and illness rates reviews.

 

                                   

 

 

 

 

            Guanín

			The Cemi Program represents a great step towards Guanin status.  Cemi participants are worksites with good safety and health management systems which nevertheless need some improvements to be classified as excellent.  Cemi sites show the potential and commitment to achieve the goals set for each worksite, and to comply with the Guanín status of quality within a three years period.  Cemí participant’s onsite evaluations are undertaken every 18 to 24 months.

 

 

 

                                   

 

 

            Cemí

			The Taino Program is designed for companies with 100 employees or less, wishing to participate in the Guanín or Cemí Programs, but do not yet meet their qualifications, do not have expertise nor have technical resources available and require special guidance and assistance to reach at least Cemí quality. This program is open to worksites with a written safety and health program that at least cover the three basic elements: Management Leadership, Employee Participation, and Safety and Health Trainings. Taíno participants are evaluated onsite annually. Successful completion with the established goals may ensure eligibility for the Guanín or Cemí Programs.

 

 

 

 

 

                                   

 

           

            Taíno