The company that operates Kent County’s Energy-from-Waste plant at 950 Market Avenue SW has been named a “Michigan Star Worksite,” the state’s most prestigious workplace safety and health award.
It’s the third time Covanta Kent Inc. has won the award from the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA).
The facility employs 38 workers and generates steam by incinerating 625 tons-per-day of municipal solid waste, generating up to 18 megawatts of electricity. The plant processes trash from Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Wyoming, Walker, East Grand Rapids and Grandville.
“Covanta Kent has once again been named a Michigan Star Worksite for the continuous development and improvement of its safety and health management system,” said MIOSHA Director Martha Yoder in an announcement on Tuesday, Jan. 27.
“This high level of achievement demonstrates a commitment to workplace safety beyond what is required by MIOSHA standards, making Covanta Kent a true model of excellence in its industry,” Yoder said.
“It’s a great honor to be named a Michigan Star Worksite for a third time. Driven by employees, Covanta Kent has implemented on-site safety activities and procedures that have generated outstanding results,” said Randy Inman, Covanta Kent facility manager.
Under Covanta’s operating contract, the company is responsible for maintaining the 25-year-old facility. Covanta has operated the plant since 1990.
“This award recognizes our steadfast commitment to safety and the tremendous record that we have worked so hard to achieve,“ Inman said.
MIOSHA established the Michigan Voluntary Protection Program (MVPP) program in 1996 to assist and recognize employers actively working toward achieving excellence in work place safety and health.
Source: Mlive.com