Secretary O'Leary officially sanctioned the DOE-VPP in her memorandum dated January 26, 1994. The DOE-VPP was instituted as a means to formally recognize contractor sites that are providing excellent safety and health programs. Interest in the program has prompted the Office of Environment, Safety and Health (EH) to develop an Outreach Program to actively assist contractors in implementing the components of the DOE-VPP. Participation in the Outreach Program is voluntary, but strongly encouraged.