Illinois Department of Labor Honors Posen FD with First Public-Sector SHARP Award

Posen — Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) Director Hugo Chaviano recognized the Posen Fire Department (FD) as the first public-sector employer to achieve Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) status in Illinois.
 
“Posen FD is committed to incorporating health and safety measures across all parts of its work environment,” said IDOL Director Chaviano. “With its acceptance into SHARP, they are not only an example for other firefighters but also for the entire community.”

Last year after an Illinois OSHA on-site consultation, Posen FD implemented an enhanced, comprehensive health and safety program. Fire Chief Kevin Szewczyk led the department in updating its safety policies and putting in place additional preventative procedures.

“Workplace safety should be a top priority for both employers and employees,” IDOL Director Chaviano said. “I commend Posen FD’s leadership in safety and encourage employers across the state to take advantage of our on-site consultations.”

Illinois OSHA, a division within IDOL, offers free and confidential safety and health on-site consultations for employers with up to 500 employees. After meeting certain requirements, employers can earn SHARP status, which exempts them from routine OSHA inspections during the period that the SHARP certification is valid. To schedule a consultation, contact Illinois OSHA at
1-800-972-4216 or visit https://www.illinois.gov/idol/Laws-Rules/safety/Consultation/Pages/Consultaiton-Visit-Request.aspx

For more information about the Illinois Department of Labor, visit the website at labor.illinois.gov. IDOL can also be found on Facebook at Facebook.com/ILDeptofLabor or on Twitter @ILDeptofLabor.