For Immediate Release

AKKERMAN INC. RECEIVES MNSHARP CERTIFICATION FOR EXEMPLARY SAFETY STANDARDS

Brownsdale, MN – July 19, 2010 – Recently acknowledged as a Minnesota Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (MNSHARP) certified worksite, Akkerman Inc. will be recognized during a ceremony on Wednesday, August 4 at 11:30 a.m. at their manufacturing facility.

MNSHARP is a Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MNOSHA) program of the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (MNDLI). MNSHARP recognized companies substantiate exemplary health and safety programs that supersede applicable OSHA standards. As one of 40 MNSHARP certified worksites, out of 10,000+ manufacturers in Minnesota, Akkerman will enjoy the benefits associated with long-term prevention of job-related injuries and illnesses including improved productivity, lower medical treatment costs and reduced worker’s compensation insurance premiums. In addition, MNSHARP compliance entitles Akkerman to an exemption from MNOSHA inspections for two years.

“Akkerman Inc. is now recognized as having one of the state’s best worksites for safety and health,” said Steve Sviggum, Department of Labor and Industry commissioner. “Together, our combined goal is worker safety. We are pleased to recognize Akkerman Inc. for its commitment to communicate, demonstrate and practice safety and health excellence at all levels of the organization. This recognition is based on Akkerman's safety record, program and most importantly, their performance.”

President and CEO, Maynard Akkerman states “Safety awareness has always been a priority at Akkerman Inc., however, going through the certification process with MNOSHA was an enlightening experience that has made a definite positive impact on my company. Nevertheless, we view this certification as another step towards continuous safety improvement.”

Workplace safety representatives from the MNDLI and MNOSHA, Commissioner Steve Sviggum, local county commissions and affiliated community members will assemble along with Akkerman employees to commemorate this achievement during the August 4 ceremony.

MNSHARP began in Minnesota in 1996. For more information, visit www.dli.mn.gov/wsc/mnsharp.asp.

Since 1973, Akkerman Inc. manufactures distinctive microtunneling, pipejacking, guided boring and earth pressure balance equipment.