The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is increasing funding for a popular grant program aimed at helping firefighters avoid carcinogens on the job.
The Firefighter Exposure to Environmental Elements Grant Program was slated to received $2 million in funding for the year 2018. The BWC announced an increase due to the overwhelming number of funding requests sent in by fire departments. As of February 28, the program had received 444 applications totaling $4.7 million in requested funding. Of those applications, the BWC has awarded 199 grants totaling $2 million, with the remaining 245 applications still pending.
The program is designed to help eligible Ohio fire departments purchase equipment to protect firefighters against exposure to the carcinogens they encounter as a part of their work. These items include diesel exhaust capture systems, extractors/washing machines for turn-out gear, hoods with barrier protection, and washable gloves. Departments can receive up to $15,000 under the program.
“When we call firefighters for help, they’re at our door as fast as humanly possible. It’s only right that we do the same when they need equipment critical to their health and safety,” said Sarah Morrison, the BWC Administrator.
The program is part of a wider initiative aimed at reducing the amount of funds spent on Ohio workers’ compensation claims by preventing injuries before they happen. The safety programs are run by the BWC’s Division of Safety & Hygiene Services and are funded by premiums paid by employers throughout the state. The BWC states that employers who participate in the programs benefit by having fewer industrial accidents and reduced overall workers’ compensation costs.
More information about the various BWC safety grants can found on the BWC’s website. www.bwc.ohio.gov.
Attorneys at FHKAD advise and defend employers in all aspects of workers’ compensation claims, advising on policies and procedures, and providing representation before the Industrial Commission and in courts. Feel free to contact David Riepenhoff, driepenhoff@fishelhass.com, or Grant Bacon,