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Aker partners with OSHA (11/24)

Union-contracted Aker Philadelphia Shipyard issued the following news release. The release is also available at Aker's web site by clicking HERE. AKER PHILADELPHIA SHIPYARD AND OSHA FORM PARTNERSHIP Cooperative relationship will improve the health and safety of workers PHILADELPHIA, PA (November 24, 2008) – Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (Oslo: AKPS), a leading U.S. commercial shipyard, recently signed an agreement entering into a partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The partnership is designed to assist Aker Philadelphia Shipyard in implementing a safety program to further protect employees, improve safety statistics and become qualified to participate in OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP). The agreement was signed November 12th during a small ceremony at the shipyard by representatives of OSHA, The Philadelphia Metal Trades Council and Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Under the agreement, the shipyard will develop a safety and health management program with a focus on Management Leadership and Employee Involvement, Worksite Analysis, Hazard Prevention and Control, and Training. These elements, based on OSHA’s 1989 Guidelines, and other goals, including reducing or maintaining injury and illness rates, could make the yard eligible to apply for OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) in as few as two years. Jim Miller, President and CEO of Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, stated “Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is honored to be selected and proud to partner with OSHA. By working on this program together, I have no doubt that we can make even greater improvements in the health and safety of our employees.” Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is a leading U.S. commercial shipyard constructing vessels for operation in the Jones Act market. It possesses a state-of-the-art shipbuilding facility and has earned a reputation as the preferred provider of oceangoing merchant vessels with a track record of delivering quality ships. Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is a member of the Norwegian-based Aker family of global companies, leaders in global growth markets including energy technologies, energy resources, maritime technologies, seafood and marine biotechnology. ###