NRG Systems - NRG Systems Wins American Psychological Associations Best Practices Honor

Vermont (USA) –Lots of companies say they offer a good place to work. NRG Systems of Hinesburg has the hardware to prove it. On March 4, NRG was presented with the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Best Practices Honor at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. for its new “green” manufacturing facility.

The Best Practices Honors is a national program developed by the APA to recognize organizations for innovative programs or policies that foster a psychologically healthy workplace. NRG Systems, a manufacturer of wind energy measurement equipment, was recognized for its manufacturing facility that features many elements of “green design,” an approach that can increase worker health and productivity while reducing the use of natural resources. NRG was honored for its attention to health and safety, one of the components of a psychologically healthy workplace.

"We are thrilled to accept this award on behalf of all the employees of NRG," said Jan Blittersdorf, NRG CEO. "When we started this business we were determined to create a workplace where the well-being of our employees comes first, a place where our green mission is shared and lived every day by our colleagues. We hope this award inspires others to make that commitment.”

At NRG’s new 46,000-square-foot facility numerous windows and skylights provide ample natural light and ventilation and give employees outdoor views from every work area. Low interior walls and open spaces encourage employee interaction. Lush green plants and low- or no-VOC-emitting stains, paints, adhesives and flooring protect indoor air quality. A beautiful cafe and commons area features a double kitchen and a three-story stone fireplace to provide a warm and inviting meeting space. An endless lap pool and a fitness area on the third floor provide an opportunity for employees to exercise during the day. Since NRG chose building materials to promote indoor air quality, employees report fewer allergies and colds and the company has experienced a reduction in unplanned absences due to illnesses. Customer satisfaction and employee commitment are up, and NRG boasts a nearly 97 % retention rate for 2005.

Nominees for this national honor were selected from a pool of previous state-level Psychologically Healthy Workplace Award winners and submitted for consideration by the psychological association of the state, province, or territory in which the company is located. This year, the APA recognized 10 companies with the Best Practices Honors.

NRG Systems, founded in 1982, manufactures wind energy measurement systems for the global wind industry. Its product line includes complete wind assessment systems, towers, instruments, sensors and accessories. NRG products can be found on every continent in more than 110 countries, serving electric utilities, wind farm developers, research institutes, government agencies, universities and homeowners.

Those interested in learning more about creating a psychologically healthy workplace or applying for an award in their state, province or territory, can visit www.phwa.org.

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