November 30, 2009 – International Paper's Sturgis Converting & Distribution Center received the CET Gold Award today from the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) for an outstanding safety and health record.  The MIOSHA program is part of the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth (DELEG).

The MIOSHA Consultation Education and Training (CET) Division recognizes the safety and health achievements of Michigan employers and employees through CET Awards, which are based on excellent safety and health performance.  The CET Gold Award recognizes an outstanding safety record of two years or more without a lost time accident.

The Sturgis facility has gone more than three years without a lost-time accident.

"We are very pleased to recognize International Paper's Sturgis facility for your outstanding efforts to create a safe and healthy work environment," said Susan R. Corbin, DELEG Deputy Director & Chief of Staff.  "You have created a corporate culture where workplace safety and health is a top priority.  Through your exemplary commitment you are protecting workers and your bottom line."

CET Division Director Connie O'Neill presented the Gold Award to the Sturgis Safety and Health Committee and General Manager Steve Knutson.  They are also a Michigan Voluntary Protection Program (MVPP) Star site.  They received MVPP Star approval on Feb. 10, 2005, and renewal certification on Aug. 25, 2008.  The MVPP is Michigan's most prestigious safety and health award.

"It has been a pleasure working with the Sturgis employees to develop a culture of safe work practices.  This culture took years to perfect and takes constant awareness by all the employees to observe each other on how their job tasks are performed safely," said Knutson.  "It is a goal of all the employees to perform our jobs in an accident free environment."

The facility has worked with the MIOSHA CET Division over several years, and CET Senior Safety Consultant Jerry Swift performed a hazard survey on site, which is a part of the award process.  This survey allowed them an opportunity to walk through the facility with a MIOSHA representative and correct any problem areas that were noted.

The Sturgis facility has an exemplary safety and health record, and has exhibited outstanding leadership in recognizing that a comprehensive safety and health program is critical to successful businesses today.  Their safety policy was developed to support the corporate safety policy ? which states, "Products can be made in a safe and healthful workplace."  Their company goal is zero accidents.  The Sturgis facility is available to mentor other businesses in the area of safety.

Besides going more than three years without a lost-time accident, the Sturgis facility has completed the following criteria to receive the Gold Award:

• Developed and implemented a comprehensive safety and health management system;
• Established a safety and health committee, with both employee and management participation;
• Developed an employee training system, with an emphasis on how to do the work in a safe and healthful manner; and
• Worked diligently to change their workplace culture to reflect the importance of worker safety.

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for the IP Sturgis facility is 322231 − Die-cut Paper and Paperboard Office Supplies Manufacturing.  To qualify for the CET awards, the company's total case incident rate (TCIR) must be at or below the Michigan industry average (5.2 in 2008) for their NAICS code.

"Companies that establish an integrated safety and health system reap the benefits of significantly reducing their injury and illness rates," said O'Neill.  "Reducing these rates not only protects employees – it has a healthy impact on a company's bottom line."

The Sturgis facility employs 69 workers and is a manufacturing plant which converts rolls of paper into sheet form.  IP Sturgis' customers use their products primarily in commercial printing operations such as greeting cards, magazines, book covers, vehicle manuals, lottery tickets, and other printed material.  There are 50,000 tons of paper converted annually in the facility.

International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global paper and packaging company with manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, Latin America, Russia, Asia and North Africa. Its businesses include uncoated papers and industrial and consumer packaging, complemented by xpedx, the company's North American distribution company. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., the company employs more than 58,000 people in more than 20 countries and serves customers worldwide. 2008 net sales were approximately $25 billion. For more information about International Paper, its products and stewardship efforts, visit www.internationalpaper.com.