DaimlerChrysler Named One of America's Safest Companies

-- Chrysler Group only automaker honored

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Sept. 2 -- The Chrysler Group has been named one of America's 16 Safest Companies by Occupational Hazards magazine. The award is presented annually to companies that have committed their efforts to provide a safe and healthy workplace for employees.

"We are delighted to receive this external validation for our efforts in the health and safety arena," said Jim Thomas, Director of DaimlerChrysler's Health, Safety and Medical Operations. "Along with the United Auto Workers (UAW), we have worked hard to establish the proper processes that have allowed us to recognize substantial improvement in our performance metrics."

Annually, Occupational Hazards magazine conducts a survey of U.S. companies to determine their commitment to safety and the methodology used to institutionalize safety practices.

In 1999, Chrysler Group and the UAW developed and implemented a process known as Bringing Excellence to Safety Teams (B.E.S.T.). This initiative has resulted in a 67% reduction in injury rates.

Both the company and the UAW recognize that these gains have had a positive influence on quality and productivity. "It should be no surprise that our success in safety is mirrored by impressive gains in our quality and productivity measures as well," said John Franciosi, Chrysler Group Senior Vice President of Employee Relations.

The 2003 list of America's Safest Companies was selected based on recommendations by industry professionals, recognition by industry associations, participation in programs such as Occupational Hazards' Voluntary Protection Program, state and local awards, and Occupational Hazards' research.

All 16 companies will be profiled in the September issue of Occupational Hazards Magazine.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Additional information and news from DaimlerChrysler is available on the Internet at: www.media.daimlerchrysler.com .