VPPPA Launches “Journey Toward Safety Excellence” Program to Support Workplace Safety Goals
The new step-by-step initiative offers free tools, mentoring, and tailored guidance to help companies improve safety and health performance in alignment with OSHA’s updated Pathways program.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Aug 13, 2025
The Voluntary Protection Programs Participants’ Association (VPPPA) announced a new initiative to help companies improve workplace safety and health performance.
The “Journey Toward Safety Excellence” program, revealed at the 2025 Safety+ Symposium in St. Louis, offers a step-by-step improvement plan that includes self-assessments, mentoring, and customized guidance. The program officially launches Sept. 1.
According to VPPPA Chairperson Terry J. Schulte, the initiative aims to help employers reach performance benchmarks achieved by top-tier OSHA Voluntary Protection Program sites. The association has developed a free gap analysis tool to help identify strengths and weaknesses in existing safety and health management systems. Participants can sign a letter of commitment and work with experienced mentors to develop tailored improvement plans.
The launch comes shortly after OSHA announced its new “Pathways to Safety and Health Success” program, which expands VPP core elements from four to seven and aligns them with OSHA’s recommended practices. Schulte said the new VPPPA program is designed to complement OSHA’s approach and provide additional resources for companies pursuing safety excellence.
Founded in 1985, VPPPA represents more than 1,400 companies and sites nationwide. The group promotes health and safety through collaboration, mentorship, and education.
More information about the “Journey Toward Safety Excellence” program is available at www.vpppa.org.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco is the Content Editor for OH&S.