Make Safety Your New Year’s Resolution: OSHA STAR and SHARP Programs
As we get ready to welcome a new year, many of us focus on resolutions - eat healthier, exercise more, or save money. But what about a resolution that protects your most valuable asset: your people? Prioritizing workplace safety isn’t just another goal; it’s a transformative step for your business. Two OSHA programs, the Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) and the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP), offer a proven roadmap to creating a world-class safety culture. If you’re setting resolutions for 2026, make sure these programs are at the top of your list.
What is OSHA’s STAR Program (VPP)?
The Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) recognize employers and employees who go beyond basic OSHA compliance by implementing comprehensive safety and health management systems. Achieving the STAR designation - the highest level of VPP recognition - signals that your workplace ranks among the safest in the nation.
For example, a mid-sized manufacturing company that earned VPP STAR status reported a 60% reduction in recordable injuries within two years, saving thousands in workers’ compensation costs and boosting productivity. Another success story comes from a regional hospital that achieved VPP recognition and saw improved employee morale alongside a 40% drop in patient-care-related injuries.
What is OSHA SHARP?
The Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) is a voluntary OSHA initiative tailored for small and medium-sized businesses that go above and beyond in workplace safety. SHARP recognizes employers who implement exemplary safety and health programs and meet OSHA’s rigorous consultation standards.
The Diamond Envelope Corporation earned SHARP in July 2024. After revamping safety protocols, they went from 2.5 to 0 Days Away Restricted Time Rate/Total Recordable Injury Rate (DART/TRIR) and boasted 2,500+ days without a lost-time incident. Another great example is Western Lake Superior Sanitary District who earned SHARP recognition in 2008 and has since reduced Total Case Incident Rate (TCIR) by 55% and Days Away Restricted Time Rate (DART) by 80% over 18 years.
Getting Started: What Employers Need to Know
Beyond the clear advantages - like cost savings and exemption from routine OSHA inspections - the greatest benefit is fostering a culture of continuous improvement and active employee engagement. And in return, a stronger brand reputation that attracts both customers and top talent.
Before pursuing OSHA’s VPP or SHARP programs, employers should understand that both require a strong commitment to safety and health management systems. Leadership involvement, employee participation, and documented processes for hazard prevention, training, and continuous improvement are essential. Here’s what the process looks like for each program:
- Meet eligibility requirements: Injury and illness rates must be below industry averages.
- Develop a comprehensive safety and health management system: Include hazard prevention, employee involvement, and regular evaluations.
- Submit an Application to OSHA: Provide detailed documentation of your program.
- Undergo an Onsite Evaluation: OSHA will conduct a thorough review of your workplace and safety practices.
- Achieve STAR Status: Recognition as a leader in workplace safety.
Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP)
- Request a Free OSHA Consultation: A confidential visit to identify hazards and compliance gaps.
- Correct Identified Hazards: Implement improvements recommended during the consultation.
- Demonstrate Exemplary Safety and Health Programs: Show proactive hazard control and employee involvement.
- Apply for SHARP Recognition: Once criteria are met, earn exemption from routine OSHA inspections and public recognition.
Conclusion
This New Year, resolve to protect your people, your profits, and your peace of mind. OSHA’s STAR and SHARP programs aren’t just certifications - they’re commitments to excellence. By embracing these programs, you’re not only reducing injuries and saving costs, but you’re also building a culture where safety is woven into every decision and every action.
A strong safety culture benefits everyone: employees feel valued and secure, productivity rises, and your organization earns a reputation as a leader in responsibility and care. When safety becomes a shared priority, it drives engagement, innovation, and long-term success. Make 2026 the year your company shines in safety.
Additional Resources:
- VPP Fact Sheet - OSHA
- SHARP FAQ - OSHA
- SafetyWorks!: Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP)
MEMIC’s SafetyNet Blog will be taking a break over the winter holiday season. We will return on January 7, 2026 with information about our upcoming OSHA Recordkeeping Webinar. We wish you all joyous and safe celebrations.
