Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest Public Works Department (PWD) Naval Base Coronado held its Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) kick-off, Feb. 21, in Naval Air Station North Island.

"It is great to see PWD Coronado continue to focus on safety excellence in the workplace," said Jennifer Dunaway, NAVFAC Southwest command safety officer. "VPP demands beyond compliance and PWD Coronado's personnel are ready for the challenge."

The event started with an all-hands safety briefing from Cmdr. Scott Laurie, NAVFAC Southwest Public Works officer for Naval Base Coronado. Various safety booths were provided to personnel at the kick-off event, to make available safety materials and instructions in support of NAVFAC Southwest's VPP culture. Representatives from Navy Region Southwest were also available to discuss health and occupational support issues.

VPP is an Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA)-recognized cooperative relationship system that promotes effective worksite-based safety and health through management and labor. NAVFAC Southwest has adopted the VPP comprehensive safety and health management system.

Representatives from 3M, on a roadshow tour of Southern California, were invited to provide six training seminars to NAVFAC Southwest PWD Coronado personnel on fall hazards, hearing conservation and metal working hazards. Personnel were reminded of the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE), were able to discuss best practices, and test drive cutting edge safety equipment.

3M personnel involved were Government Accounts Manager Gary Charles, Key Accounts Specialist Larry Dick, Safety Representative for San Diego County Derek Nordquist, Fall Protection Specialist Mike Murphy, Technical Service Don Rust, Roadshow Support JJ Bush, and Roadshow Support Deanna Johnson. The roadshow is scheduled to be back in Southern California in October 2018.

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