How Superior Linen Service Improved Workplace Safety and Prepared for SHARP Certification
Superior Linen Service, a company deeply committed to the safety and well-being of its employees, was awarded the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) certification in December 2024. Through their partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Labor (ODOL) and years of proactive safety improvements, they have built a safety culture that consistently outperforms industry standards.
A Commitment to Workplace Safety
Superior Linen Service’s journey began with a clear goal: to prioritize workplace safety and protect their employees. While they worked toward SHARP certification, they partnered with ODOL’s OSHA Consultation Services to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices for safety management.
“Our motivation stemmed from a deep commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards for our employees. Pursuing SHARP certification gave us a structured approach to enhance workplace safety.” – Russell Holt, Chief Compliance Officer
The Results: Significant Progress Before SHARP Certification
Even before achieving SHARP certification, Superior Linen Service’s dedication to safety yielded impressive results, with safety metrics far exceeding industry standards:
In 2021, their DART rate (Days Away, Restricted, or Transferred) was 0.88, an impressive 79.05% lower than the industry average of 4.2.
Their Total Incident Rate (TIR) was 4.4, 20% below the industry standard of 5.5.
By 2023, the company improved these numbers even further:
Their DART rate dropped to 0.71, 77.81% lower than the industry benchmark of 3.2.
Their TIR fell to 0.71, an exceptional 82.25% below the industry average of 4.0.
These results reflect the company’s relentless focus on safety and the positive impact of working with ODOL’s consultants to strengthen their safety management systems.
Overcoming Challenges Through Expert Guidance
When Superior Linen Service began its safety journey with ODOL nearly two decades ago, its program was underdeveloped and inconsistent. Partnering with ODOL’s OSHA Consultation Services made all the difference.
“OSHA consultants visited our site, explained safety standards, and helped us create and implement comprehensive, company-wide safety policies. Their expertise was invaluable in guiding us through this process,” Holt said.
The consultants worked directly with Superior Linen Service to:
Identify hazards and implement solutions to address them.
Engage employees in developing safety programs.
Improve hazard awareness and training effectiveness.
These efforts laid the foundation for Superior Linen Service’s SHARP certification and helped embed safety into their company culture.
Preparing for SHARP Certification
The SHARP program, developed by OSHA, recognizes small and mid-sized businesses that have implemented effective workplace safety and health management systems. For Superior Linen Service, the journey to certification has already delivered significant benefits, including:
Reduced incidents and safer working conditions for employees.
Lower costs from fewer injuries and reduced insurance premiums.
Increased employee morale and confidence in safety protocols.
Russell Holt encourages other businesses to consider SHARP, emphasizing its benefits:
“We strongly encourage businesses to pursue SHARP certification. It’s a proactive investment in workforce safety and long-term success.”
What Is SHARP?
SHARP recognizes businesses that go above and beyond in workplace safety. Benefits include:
Exemption from scheduled OSHA inspections for 1–2 years.
Improved employee safety and reduced injury rates.
Recognition as a leader in workplace safety.
To qualify, businesses must:
Operate for at least one year.
Request a full-service safety consultation.
Correct identified hazards and maintain DART and TIR rates below industry averages.
Looking Ahead: A Safer Future
Superior Linen Service’s progress is proof that commitment to safety delivers measurable results. By working with ODOL’s OSHA Consultation Services and preparing for SHARP certification, they’ve created a safer, more efficient workplace for their employees.
“Inviting OSHA consultants is an opportunity, not a risk. The program is confidential, supportive, and designed to help businesses succeed. There is no downside,” Holt said.
Take the First Step Toward SHARP Certification
If your business is ready to prioritize safety and achieve results like Superior Linen Service, we’re here to help.
Learn more about the SHARP program and schedule your free safety consultation today:
Visit: SHARP Program Page
Call: (405) 521-6141
Email: jahkia.robinson@labor.ok.gov
Our team is here to guide you through the process and help you achieve workplace safety excellence!
