WestRock, a folding carton plant in Nicholasville, now joins the ranks of an elite group of companies to earn certification in OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP).

The venture, which took three years to complete, started in January 2014 and required participation from the over 200 employees at the company.

VPP participants develop and implement systems to identify, evaluate, prevent and control occupational hazards to prevent employee injuries and illnesses. West Rock in Nicholasville is only the 12th VPP-certified business in Kentucky, and one of six WestRock facilities throughout the U.S. to earn the designation, according to a press release from WestRock.

Nicholasville celebrated the achievement by hosting a plant-wide ceremony on Thursday for its employees, WestRock leaders and OSHA dignitaries.

“This accomplishment is a result of Nicholasville’s relentless pursuit of perfection, and a great example of the excellence the team has accomplished along the way,” said George Wurtz, general manager of the Nicholasville WestRock. “The program is a never-ending journey, and the group is always there to challenge you. We’re living proof that hard work and dedication to safety pay off.”