For immediate release: February 7, 2013

Salem business recognized as one of the safest companies in Ohio

Salem - Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) Administrator/CEO Steve Buehrer today recognized Haltec Corporation in Columbiana County for attaining Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) status through the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA). The company is now one of only 26 SHARP-certified Ohio employers. The company is a leading manufacturer of tire valves, tire management and inflation solutions, and employs more than 85 Ohioans in Salem.

"BWC safety and industrial hygiene consultants worked with Haltec's management and staff for the last 18 months to enhance safety policies and programs to ensure Haltec's operations, processes and work practices meet SHARP status," said Buehrer. "Prevention is about planning ahead to avoid accidents and injury and provide a workplace where employees are safe and productive. Achieving SHARP status is no easy task, and I applaud the dedication to safety exemplified by Haltec's employees and management."

Buehrer and Greg Collins, manager of BWC's OSHA On-Site Consultation program, presented the SHARP status award to Haltec's management and staff. BWC administers the OSHA On-Site Consultation program through a matching OSHA grant to provide occupational safety and health consultation to small employers in high hazard industries. Through SHARP, the program recognizes small employers that implement and operate exemplary safety and health management systems. OSHA grants employers with SHARP status a two-year exemption from OSHA enforcement inspections, with the opportunity for renewals for three more years of exemptions.

"Attaining SHARP status is evidence of our commitment to safety. Haltec employees recognize the importance of being attentive to hazards that carry a low risk, but are encountered on a daily basis. Awareness and being safe is firmly part of our culture," said Haltec President Tom Moyer.

Consultants with BWC's Division of Safety & Hygiene are available to help small businesses create and implement safety programs and identify hazards that need corrected to achieve SHARP status. The On-Site Consultation program is one of many safety-related programs available to Ohio employers wishing to address and improve safety and wellness in their workplaces. Call 1-800-OHIO-BWC or visit OhioBWC.com for more information.

A photo from today's ceremony is available here.

Follow BWC on Twitter.

# # #