Ohio BWC offering grants for research and development of innovative PPE

Columbus, OH — The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has announced $30 million in grants for research and development of personal protective equipment innovations.

BWC’s new Workforce Safety Innovation Center will administer the funding with the goal of “accelerating the process for innovations from proof-of-concept to the marketplace.” Using data from BWC claims, the center will identify priority areas for technologies and products that reduce the frequency and severity of on-the-job injuries.

The center’s objective is to determine the practical potential of the submitted innovations, as well as encourage collaboration and build strong relationships between industry, research institutions and higher education.

To be eligible, grant applicants must be from an Ohio research organization or nonprofit higher education institution. A notice of intent to apply for funding must be submitted by April 14, and applications are due May 13. Grant announcements are slated for July 1.

“Our goal remains the same – prevent workplace injuries from occurring in the first place,” BWC Administrator and CEO Stephanie McCloud said in a press release. “The Workplace Safety Innovation Center will help drive the development of products and technologies that protect Ohio workers.”