LyondellBasell Matagorda Site Recognized by OSHA
March 15, 2016
20th year for the Voluntary Protection Programs Star Certification
BAY CITY, Texas – March 15, 2016 – The LyondellBasell facility in Matagorda recently marked 20 years of achievement at the highest level of the Voluntary Protection Programs. This distinction is awarded by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for safety performance excellence in the private sector. The Matagorda site recently completed the Star re-certification process which recognizes companies that meet and exceed OSHA requirements and standards.
“We constantly strive to be the best operated, most valued company in our industry and safety is an integral part of our success,” said LyondellBasell Matagorda Site Manager Joe Hoinkis. “We employ a detailed strategy to reach exemplary results in occupational safety. I’m incredibly proud of each and every member of the staff here.”
With a comprehensive approach by the plant leadership team and staff, the Matagorda site underwent a strenuous re-certification review. This procedure includes an on-site visit, examination of records, interviews with staff and employees plus an in-depth walk-through of the plant. Depending on the size of the facility, this inspection can take several days.
“Only a fraction of companies earn the VPP Star status,” said Sharon Stewart, LyondellBasell manager of Health, Safety and Environment. “This distinction reflects the hard work and attention to detail from our staff and the LyondellBasell mission of maintaining a high standard of excellence.”
The LyondellBasell Matagorda site falls under the Corpus Christi umbrella of OSHA.
“The dedicated employees at the facility should take pride in knowing they are one of only five facilities in the Corpus Christi area with twenty years in the Volunteer Protection Program,” said Josh Flesher, assistant regional administrator for OSHA Region VI. “Continuous improvement is an essential value of VPP. Congratulations again on your tremendous accomplishment and keep up the great work.”
The LyondellBasell Matagorda site was first approved for the VPP Star program in 1996 and has continuously received the re-certifications. According to OSHA, the average VPP location experiences a lost workday incidence rate at least 50 percent below the average of its respective industry.
Media Contact: Pattie Shieh-Lance (O) 713-209-1341 (C) 832-808-2007 Patricia.Shieh-Lance@lyb.com