TEWKSBURY, Mass., July 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Four Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) Integrated Defense Systems' (IDS) facilities have recently earned Star distinction from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for superior workplace safety and health management programs.

Star is the highest level of the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) certification possible. To achieve Star status, companies must demonstrate that they meet a high standard of criteria for safety and health.

"We pride ourselves on maintaining an effective, superior safety program through continuous improvement and the ongoing education of our employees and their individual commitment to look out for each other," said Daniel J. Ryan, vice president of Operations for Integrated Defense Systems. "The VPP Star distinction signifies that our employees understand the importance of safety for themselves and for our business."

In recognition of the prestigious accomplishment, OSHA VPP flag-presentation ceremonies were held for each of the recognized IDS centers, including the Cross Business Integration Center in Billerica, Mass.; the Warfighter Protection Center in Huntsville, Ala.; and IDS Headquarters in Tewksbury, Mass. The Expeditionary Warfare Center in San Diego, Calif., was recognized by the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which has been delegated the authority to administer OSHA standards.

Only a select number of facilities across the country receive a VPP Star rating each year due to OSHA's strict selection standards and the rigorous evaluation process. VPP sets performance-based criteria for a managed safety and health system. OSHA's verification process includes a thorough on-site evaluation by a team of safety and health experts.

Raytheon Company, with 2010 sales of $25 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 89 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.

http://www.raytheon.com

Contact:
Guy Shields
978.858.5246

SOURCE Raytheon Company