歪歪漫画

DAWSON, Minn. - Johnson Memorial Health Services, a hospital and nursing home in Dawson, has earned a top designation by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for going above and beyond in meeting safety requirements.

Johnson Memorial is the first nursing home - and only the second hospital - in the state to achieve the Safety and Health Recognition Achievement Program, or MnSHARP.

鈥淢ost places can鈥檛 meet the qualifications,鈥� said Ken Peterson, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.

 鈥淚t鈥檚 a big deal,鈥� said Kathy Johnson, chief executive and administrator. Several Dawson residents joined in a recognition event Thursday.

Thirty-nine Minnesota employers with fewer than 500 employees, mostly in the manufacturing industry, have qualified so far. The Department of Labor and Industry has a similar program, MnSTAR, for employers with more than 500 workers. Only one hospital in the state has earned MnSTAR certification; 31 large employers in all are certified.