Media Advisory: Oct. 7, 2008

BWC Leads Safety Seminar for Group Rating Sponsors

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) announced today it is strengthening efforts to promote workplace safety within Ohio’s group rating program by pairing BWC safety consultants with group sponsors to assist in the development of an appropriate safety program.

BWC made the announcement at a safety seminar for group rating sponsors. The sponsors are responsible for ensuring the development of health and safety programs and promoting workplace safety among employers within their groups.

“A well planned safety program has a positive impact at all levels of an organization,” said BWC Administrator Marsha Ryan. “Inclusion in a group-sponsored rating program hinges on a strong safety record. It is imperative that group rating sponsors communicate the importance of workplace safety and training to their members, to not only ensure the health and well-being of Ohio’s workers, but to also protect the financial well-being of each of its members.”

Each year, group rating sponsoring organizations are required to provide a minimum of eight hours of safety training for employers within their group. To assist the sponsors in educating their members, each organization is linked with professionals in BWC’s Division of Safety and Hygiene to assist in evaluating strategies for augmenting safety communication and training within their groups.

BWC consultants will work with sponsors to provide technical information, occupational safety and health resources, assess safety training needs and recommend solutions.

BWC’s Division of Safety and Hygiene helps employers prevent workplace injuries and illnesses through consultative services that are provided at no additional cost.

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Maria Smith
614-728-8045 or 614-205-5709
mariasmith@bwc.state.oh.us

Melissa Vince
614-466-2956 or 614-202-2329
melissa.vince@bwc.state.oh.us