Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet
Maker's Mark, through safety record, attains 'sharp' status

LORETTO, Ky. (June 7, 2005) – Maker’s Mark Distillery Inc., known around the world for fine bourbon whiskey, today received an award for having taken extraordinary measures to ensure the safety and health of its employees.

A plaque signifying the company’s certification under the Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) was presented to Dave Pickerell, vice president of production, by John Clay, deputy secretary of the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet.

Maker’s Mark pursued SHARP certification for two years and was the third Kentucky company to attain it. The program was designed by the U.S. Department of Labor to encourage and recognize excellence in occupational safety and health among small employers – those with 250 or fewer workers – in “high hazard” industries. Maker’s Mark has a work force of about 70.

SHARP companies first undergo an exhaustive assessment by Kentucky Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) consultants. Among other requirements, a company must have injury and illness rates below national averages for its industry. It also must involve employees in its safety and health management system, including implementation of its action plan.

SHARP certification is good for one year and can be renewed. A company is exempted from scheduled OSH inspections during the certification period.