For Immediate Release
February 27, 2001

Pepco today launched an Internet-based program to assist businesses in meeting the employee training requirements of federal job safety rules.

With a few clicks of the mouse, employees can take any of 13 interactive courses without leaving their workplace by visiting Pepco's Online Training Institute. To reach the site, go to Pepco's Web site at www.pepco.com and click on "connected to your small business."

Among the courses offered by Pepco are electrical safety, asbestos awareness, blood-borne pathogens, hazard communication, ergonomics, hearing-loss prevention and fire safety.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, better known as OSHA, requires most private employers to make workers aware of OSHA safety standards, including measures to prevent accidents and recognize hazardous materials in the workplace.

Pepco developed the new Online Training Institute from experience in operating an extensive in-house safety training program.

"OSHA training is relevant to all businesses, regardless of size or type," said Will Lowe, Pepco's project manager. "Raising safety awareness in the workplace can reduce the risk of injury, absenteeism and liability."

Lowe said the online training offers a convenient and cost effective alternative for business owners who either send employees to an offsite program or hire outside consultants. There is a $15 fee per per student for each course or $135 per student for the entire 13-course program. Through the Pepco Online Training Institute, employers can monitor employee signup, track progress, and verify exam scores and course completion.

Students successfully completing a course receive a certificate documenting their demonstrated knowledge of OSHA workplace safety standards.

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Pepco (www.pepco.com) is an investor-owned company that delivers electricity to more than 700,000 customers in Washington, D.C. and the Maryland suburbs. Through its family of subsidiaries, Pepco also operates in the competitive arenas of telecommunications and energy products and services in the mid-Atlantic region.