The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP) recognizes employers and workers in the private industry and federal agencies who implemented effective safety and health management systems (SHMS) and maintain injury and illness rates below national Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) averages for their respective industries. According to OSHA, "In VPP, management, labor, and OSHA work cooperatively and proactively to prevent fatalities, injuries, and illnesses through a system focused on: hazard prevention and control; worksite analysis; training; and management commitment and worker involvement." To participate, employers submit an application and undergo a rigorous onsite evaluation by a team of safety and health professionals. Union support is required for applicants represented by a bargaining unit. VPP participants are re-evaluated every three to five years. VPP participants are exempt from OSHA programmed inspections while they maintain their VPP status.