Ohio Business Wins Gov.’s Excellence in WC Award

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) has announced that Norweco is one of six companies that received the 2005 Governor’s Excellence in Workers’ Compensation Award (GEA). Norweco is one of three winners in the State-Fund Employer category.

“The Governor’s Excellence in Workers’ Compensation Awards are given to Ohio businesses that go to great lengths to protect their employees from workplace injuries,” said BWC Administrator/CEO Tina Kielmeyer. “Norweco demonstrates its commitment to safety by dedicating time and resources to safety programs and strategies. In the process, the company helps make Ohio’s economy prosper.”

The Governor’s Excellence in Workers’ Compensation Award is given to employers that focus on aggressively reducing workplace accidents and actively supporting injured workers with return-to-work programs.

Norweco, a wastewater treatment equipment distributor, is reportedly a model of workplace safety. Each week, the general manager or vice president takes a plant wide safety tour with two shop and two office employees. Any safety violations seen during their rounds are immediately reported to the production manager for corrective action. Additionally, several staff members are first-aid/CPR-trained and available to assist should a medical emergency occur.

In January 2004, Norweco completed a comprehensive overhaul of its safety program. As a result, Norweco achieved Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program Certification (SHARP), a distinction offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

BWC was to present the award to Norweco on Aug. 5.

A local business organization, such as a chamber of commerce, another state agency or a BWC employee can nominate a business for a Governor’s Excellence in Workers’ Compensation Award. A business may also nominate itself.

In addition to the two public employer winners, two winners are selected among private employers that pay into the state fund and employ less than 100 people. Other winners include one state-fund company that employs 100 or more workers and one self-insuring employer.