Ohio BWC Safety Grants Available

Ohio BWC has opened the application period the Safety Intervention Grant (SIG) Program, which matches eligible state-fund employers $3 to $1 on investments to create a safer workplace. Most employers who have had an Ohio BWC policy for at least one year, are paying above minimum premium ($120+), current on installments and true ups with no lapses this year should be able to take advantage. Self-insuring employers, employers in a self-insured PEO, state agencies and state universities are not eligible. Every three years, eligible employers can apply for up to $40,000 in matching funds to purchase “equipment to substantially reduce or eliminate injuries and illnesses associated with a particular task or operation.”

The first thing to note is that if your organization wants to benefit from the Safety Intervention Grants, you must complete this process before purchasing equipment. Be prepared with info on workers’ comp claims or incidents associated with the particular area or task, number of employees performing the task, and explore vendors to get price quotes on equipment. As always, there are items and services that grant funds can’t be used for - like standard PPE, training, equipment needed to meet minimum OSHA requirements, etc. A detailed moratorium can be found here.

Of course, there are usually a few strings attached when money is given away. There are reporting requirements once the grant is approved. To avoid getting too detailed on these requirements, we’d suggest reading through them yourself, then reaching out to either BWC or your Spooner Safety representative with any questions. There are even lists of previous grant recipients, so you could peruse those for industry colleagues you may be able to tap for more info.

BWC is also accepting applications for the Firefighter Exposure to Environmental Elements Grant (FEEEG), and the School Safety and Security Grant (SSSG).

Your BWC online account will allow you to apply for the grant and manage the process online. There is also a streamlined eligibility cycle of three years for all employers, and a limited reporting/case study of one year. Please reach out to your Spooner Safety rep or client services manager if you need help with the application process.