The Washington Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) is a program administered by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries that is designed to recognize employer excellence in workplace safety and health. The main goal of the program is to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses and to promote successful safety and health programs. The program has three levels of recognition: Star, Merit, and Demonstration. The Star level is the highest level of recognition and is for employers who have implemented exemplary safety and health programs. In order to attain Star status, employers must demonstrate that they have comprehensive safety and health programs in place, and that employees are actively involved in the safety and health process. Employers must also demonstrate that their injury and illness rates are significantly lower than the state average. The Merit level is for employers who have safety and health programs in place that are effective, but may not meet all the Star requirements. Employers must demonstrate that they have a safety and health program in place and that their injury and illness rates are lower than the state average. The Demonstration level is for employers who are just starting out with a safety and health program. Employers must demonstrate that they have a safety and health program in place and that their injury and illness rates are lower than the state average. The Washington VPP is a great way for employers to recognize and reward their employees for their commitment to workplace safety and health. It also provides employers with recognition for their efforts to promote a safe and healthy work environment.