BWC rewards Ohio employers for prioritizing workplace safety

Wednesday, April 27, 2004

Ohio businesses may receive up to $31 million for safety council membership

COLUMBUS- The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) will continue and increase the premium discount for safety council members for the next fiscal year. Now, safety council members, both new and old, will receive a 4 percent discount for active participation.

“The safety council program gives Ohio employers the unique opportunity to network and dialogue about workplace safety on a regular basis,” said James Conrad, Administrator and CEO. “When employers are actively involved in their local safety council, the possibilities are endless. Safety council members are not only committed to keeping their employees safe from harm, but also keeping premiums low.”

Safety councils work with BWC’s Division of Safety and Hygiene to increase safety awareness. They also provide a local forum for occupational safety and health issues that are unique to certain industries and areas of the state.

Employers that actively participate in the safety council program from July 1, 2005 through June 30, 2006 will receive a 4 percent one-time workers’ compensation premium discount. In order to be eligible for the discount, employers must:

• Be enrolled in the safety council by September 30, 2005
• Send a representative to at least eight meetings
• Have senior management attendance at the safety council CEO event
• Submit semiannual reports for the 2005 calendar year

If all current safety council members meet the criteria, BWC will give up to $31 million back to Ohio’s employers to reinvest in their safety programs.

To find out more information about your local safety council, call 1-800-OHIOBWC or contact your local BWC office. You also can find information online at ohiobwc.com.

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Media contact: Jeremy Jackson, BWC, (614) 752-7558 or Emily Hicks, (614)728-6197.