For Immediate Release: Oct. 9, 2007

City of Cuyahoga Falls Recognized for Safety Excellence

CUYAHOGA FALLS – By cutting its workers’ compensation claims by more than 50 percent over the past six years, the City of Cuyahoga Falls has proven it is serious about the safety of its employees. This dedicated approach to workplace safety demonstrates a prudent use of taxpayer dollars and has earned the city one of the highest honors among Ohio communities and businesses. Cuyahoga Falls is being recognized as one of six Ohio employers to receive the 2007 Governor’s Excellence in Workers’ Compensation Award, presented today by BWC Administrator Marsha Ryan.

“Our employees deserve the tools and resources to perform their jobs safely and efficiently every day. They also understand that safety takes teamwork to identify and eliminate workplace risks,” said Mayor Don Robart. “It’s a win-win situation because our employees are safe on the job, and by reducing claims, we’re getting the most out of our community’s tax dollars.”

In 1992, Cuyahoga Falls established a Workers’ Compensation Fund. To date, nearly $1 million from this fund has been used to purchase safety equipment and services for employees, in turn reducing on-the-job injuries. The city continues to take a proactive approach to managing its workers’ compensation program.

“The City of Cuyahoga Falls is a great example of how hard work and dedication to safety can result in benefits across the board,” said Governor Ted Strickland. “The city has earned this award because of its long-term investment in the health and well-being of its employees.”

For more than a decade the Governor’s Excellence in Workers’ Compensation Award program has recognized Ohio businesses and public employers who provide a safe, cost-effective workplace for their employees, while also supporting their injured workers. Awards are presented to: three private, state-fund employers, two of these winners must have fewer than 100 employees; two awards are given to public employers; and the final winner is a self-insuring company.

“The City of Cuyahoga Falls has made the commitment to building a safety culture, which not only ensures the safety of its employees, but saves taxpayer dollars by keeping its workers’ compensation premiums low,” said Administrator Ryan. “The city is has become a leader among its peers by constantly striving to provide a safe and healthy workplace.”

Contact: Keary McCarthy
mccarthy.keary@bwc.state.oh.us

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