The BWC Has Officially Reopened Applications for the 2027 Safety Grants Program

Ohio's Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) has reopened its Safety Intervention Grant program for the 2027 grant year, giving eligible employers another opportunity to offset the cost of equipment and training that reduces workplace injuries. If your organization has been eyeing a safety upgrade but hesitating over the price tag, this program is worth a close look before the application window closes.

What the Safety Intervention Grant Covers

The BWC's Safety Intervention Grant is a reimbursement-style program designed to help Ohio employers purchase equipment or make workplace changes that directly reduce the risk of injury. Approved projects have historically included items such as:

• Ergonomic lifting aids and material-handling equipment

• Machine guarding and lockout/tagout hardware

• Assistive devices that reduce repetitive-motion strain

• Safety training programs tied to specific hazard reduction

The primary flagship offering is the Safety Intervention Grant (SIG), which provides a 3-to-1 matching grant of up to $40,000 per three-year cycle. This means the BWC will provide $3 for every $1 your business contributes.

Who Is Eligible to Apply

Most private Ohio employers who are current with their BWC premiums and in good standing with the bureau are eligible to apply. A few general points to keep in mind:

• Coverage: Active, state-fund private employer or public taxing district.

• Standing: Current on all BWC premiums and True-Up reports with no lapses over 40 days in the last 12 months.

• History: Must have at least two years of payroll history with the BWC.

• Exclusions: Self-insured employers, state agencies, and state universities are not eligible.

Key Dates and How to Apply

Applications are submitted directly through the BWC's online employer portal. Because grant funding is limited and demand tends to be high, it pays to prepare your application materials in advance rather than waiting until the deadline approaches.

Before you apply, gather the following:

• A description of the workplace hazard you are addressing

• Vendor quotes for the equipment or service you plan to purchase

• Supporting documentation such as injury and illness records or a job hazard analysis

• Your BWC policy number and account information

How Spooner Inc Can Help

Navigating the grant application process takes time, and writing a compelling, well-documented submission is often what separates approved projects from rejected ones. Spooner Inc works with Ohio employers to identify qualifying safety improvements, document workplace hazards properly, and put together applications that clearly connect your project to measurable risk reduction. We can also help you think through the broader picture — making sure a grant-funded purchase fits into your overall safety program rather than sitting in a corner unused.

If you have questions about whether your organization qualifies, what projects might be a good fit, or how to get your application started, reach out to the Spooner Inc team. We are glad to walk you through the process and help you make the most of this funding opportunity before the window closes.