TEP First Arizona Utility to Receive OSHA's 'SHARP' Safety Certification.

TUCSON, Ariz. -- Tucson Electric Power is the state's first utility, and one of only two southern Arizona businesses, to meet the requirements for the Safety & Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) certification, a special Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) award for businesses with exemplary worksite safety and health programs.

"The program is designed to recognize companies doing an outstanding job of promoting the safety and health of its employees," said Mark Norton, assistant director, Arizona Division of Occupational Safety & Health (ADOSH). "It goes beyond just having safety rules. It's about developing a culture where awareness, training and best practices are encouraged and enforced every day."

The SHARP certification was awarded to TEP after an on-site audit of its utility operations.

OSHA inspectors rated TEP on more than 50 items ranging from hazard prevention and safety and health training to management supervision and employee participation.

Companies must meet or exceed OSHA standards in every category to receive SHARP certification.

"Our commitment to delivering safe, reliable energy to customers relies upon our ability to protect our most valuable asset: our employees," said James S. Pignatelli, chairman, president and chief executive officer of TEP and parent, UniSource Energy (NYSE: UNS). "I'm proud of our employees' dedication to maintaining a safe work environment and very proud of this recognition from OSHA."

ADOSH Director Darin Perkins will formally present the SHARP certification to TEP Utility Operations Vice President Jim Pyers during an employee meeting at 9 a.m., Aug. 31, at the company's Operating Headquarters, 4350 E. Irvington Road.

As a certified SHARP site, TEP's utility operations division is granted a one-year exemption from OSHA's scheduled inspections and can renew its certification annually.