Ohio BWC receives approval for additional $30 million in safety grants

Due to a flood of requests, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Board of Directors requested an additional $30 million dollars for safety grants. On February 10, 2020, the Controlling Board approved its request, bringing the total amount appropriated for safety grants to $70 million in fiscal years 2020 and 2021.

Safety grants are fully funded by employer premiums and provide up to $40,000 to employers for training, wellness programs and equipment to reduce injuries and illnesses. As of January 3, 2020, the BWC has already awarded:

• $8.2 million in school safety and security grants
• $5 million in safety intervention grants for manufacturers and other businesses
• $1.2 million in law enforcement body armor grants
• nearly $725,000 for firefighter protection
• $247,000 to protect social workers and caregivers to people with disabilities
• $82,000 in workplace wellness grants

Click here for more information on the BWC's program or to apply for a safety grant.