RICHLAND, Wash. – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has recognized Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS), Hanford’s Tank Operations Contractor, for its outstanding safety program by awarding WRPS Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Star status.

The VPP recognizes excellence in occupational safety and health protection for contractors at DOE sites. WRPS achieved Star status, the highest level of certification, based on the results of a DOE assessment conducted earlier this year.

“This well-deserved honor belongs to all WRPS employees, whose efforts make the tank farms a safe place to work,” said Dave Olson, WRPS President and Project Manager. “Our Employee Accident Prevention Councils, the Hanford Atomic Metal Trades Council (HAMTC) safety representatives, and our safety and health staff work cooperatively to address workforce issues and encourage continuous improvement.”

WRPS has more than 1,600 employees at Hanford. The company is responsible for safely managing 56 million gallons of high-level radioactive and chemical waste stored in 177 underground tanks. The waste is the legacy of Cold War plutonium production.

The VPP was established in 1994 and is identical to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration Voluntary Protection Program, except that participation is open to contractors employed at DOE-owned facilities.