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Take advantage of a 4-7% BWC premium discount with a Drug-Free Safety Program

The Drug-Free Safety Program (DFSP) is a plan offered by the Bureau of Workers' Comp. It isn’t new, but few companies know how to start and manage a Basic or Advanced program that reduces accidents caused by substance use or abuse.



Safety in general industry includes safety services for manufacturing companies.

When these thorough workplace plans are effected, businesses may be eligible for up to a 7% BWC insurance premium discount.


Requirements and discounts for the DFSP vary depending on the level chosen – Basic, Advanced, or Comparable.



Understanding levels and premium discounts


Basic level – When employers satisfy all of the Basic level requirements, they may be eligible for a 4-percent premium discount.


Advanced level – When employers satisfy all of the Advanced level requirements, they may be eligible for a 7-percent premium discount.


Comparable level – If an employer has implemented a drug-free program comparable to the DFSP, they are not eligible for a discount. (Note: Ohio law requires companies who want to bid on State of Ohio public improvement and construction projects have a drug-free program no matter the number of employees.)


 

CALCULATED PREMIUM DISCOUNTS

Advanced Level

Premium – $100,000

Discount – $7,000

Premium – $75,000

Discount – $5,250

Premium – $50,000

Discount – $3,500

Basic Level

Premium – $100,000

Discount – $4,000


Premium – $75,000

Discount – $3,000


Premium – $50,000

Discount – $2,000


 



DFSP eligibility


Only state-fund employers may receive a DFSP premium discount, including private employers and public employer taxing districts. State agencies cannot participate.


Qualified applicants must:


  • Be no more than 45 days past due on any premiums, assessments, penalties or monies due to any BWC administered fund at the time of application review and throughout the policy year.

  • Not have cumulative lapses in workers’ compensation coverage in excess of 40 days within the 12 months preceding original application or subsequent anniversary deadline wherein the employer seeks renewal for the DFSP.

  • Be in good standing at the time of application review.

  • Continue to meet all eligibility requirements during program participation, when applying for renewal, and during each subsequent year of program participation.


Overview of DFSP requirements


Accident-analysis training

All supervisors and other personnel involved in the accident-analysis process must be provided one-time training within 30 days of starting the drug-free program or within 60 days of becoming a supervisor. (Basic and Advanced)


Online accident reporting

When an accident occurs or the employer becomes aware of an accident, an accident report must be submitted. (Basic and Advanced)


Workplace safety review

Within 30 days of starting the drug-free program, the employer must submit a safety management self-assessment. (Basic and Advanced)


Annual report

Employers are required to submit an annual report according to the program year deadline. (Basic, Advanced and Comparable)


Safety action plan

Within 60 days of starting the drug-free program year, the employer must submit a safety action plan. (Advanced)


Written DFSP policy

At the heart of the DFSP is a written policy that covers every element of the program level (Basic or Advanced) your company is implementing. The written substance policy discloses all work-related program rules to your workforce so that they have a clear understanding of work behaviors that violate policy. (Basic and Advanced)


Employee education

One hour of initial training and one-hour refresher training annually is required by employer. (Basic and Advanced)


Supervisor training

Two hours of initial training (within four months of initial enrollment) and one-hour refresher training annually is required by employer. (Basic and Advanced)


Drug and alcohol testing

Employers must provide the following testing: pre-employment and new hire, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty, follow-up testing. In addition to these testings, 15-percent random testing is required for Advanced level. (Basic and Advanced)


Employee assistance

It is recommended that the employer provide the highest degree of assistance available for their employees, including providing a list of resource assistance. Advanced levels must have a pre-established working relationship with a professional who can assist an employee with their substance abuse and pay for the assessment. (Basic and Advanced)



DFSP Application & Implementation


D&D Safety provides safety services programs and training to assist companies with all aspects of the DFSP program including DFSP application, developing a written policy, employee and supervisor training, and more. To learn how to participate in the DFSP, contact us directly at 216-352-1900.





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