While the company always tried to stay ahead and remain safe. Company leaders knew they could be safer so they began their journey toward a safer environment with Minnesota OSHA’s Workplace Safety Consultation Program in 2021 after pandemic era challenges and wider industry safety concerns.
During their onsite inspections, consultants identified hazards in machine guarding, fall protection, electrical systems, and training.
As a result:
- Injury and illness rates declined and remained below industry averages
- Total Recordable Case (TRC) rate dropped from 4.4 in 2021 to 1.8 in 2024
- Days Away, Restricted, and Transfer (DART) rate fell from 1.9 to 1.2
- Zero recorded injuries in 2025
- Increased employee engagement, trust, and morale
As a result of its safety program success, Northern Pride decided to go for Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) recognition.
Looking to Stay SHARP
Northern Pride achieved pre SHARP recognition in 2023 and full SHARP approval on December 26, 2024. The next SHARP reapproval is on tap for September 2026, underscoring the company’s sustained commitment to a robust safety and health management system.
Northern Pride’s journey demonstrates how collaboration, education, and employee empowerment can transform a workplace. Through determination and partnership, NPI has built a stronger, safer environment where employees understand the value of safety—and actively help shape it every day.
Northern Pride employees stand behind SHARP flag.
Source: Northern Pride
SHARP acknowledges small and medium-sized businesses that have used OSHA On-Site Consultation Program services. They operate exemplary workplace safety and health programs. Small businesses that achieve SHARP status receive a deferral from programmed inspections for the period the SHARP designation is valid.
Acceptance into SHARP is an achievement that identifies the employer as a model for occupational safety and health.
Additionally, OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program offers no-cost and confidential occupational safety and health services to small and medium-sized businesses. It covers all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and several U.S. territories, with priority given to high hazard worksites.
Consultants from state agencies and universities work with employers to identify workplace hazards and how to fix them. They provide advice for compliance with OSHA standards, train and educate workers, and assist in establishing and improving safety and health programs.
On-Site Consultation services are separate from OSHA enforcement efforts.
Click here for more information on the Minnesota OSHA On-Site Consultation Program.