Firefighter Exposure to Environmental Elements Grants (FEEEG) Program
🏛 Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation
Can you apply?
This grant is for Ohio-based fire departments and emergency services purchasing equipment to reduce firefighter exposure to hazardous environmental elements. Eligible employers include public and volunteer fire departments and EMS units. The grant supports purchase of specific protective equipment and facility infrastructure, such as diesel exhaust capture systems, gear washers, and protective clothing. Applicants must contribute required cost-sharing to be eligible.
⚖️ Cost sharing / matching required — applicants must contribute their own funds.
This grant is for Ohio-based fire departments and emergency services purchasing equipment to reduce firefighter exposure to hazardous environmental elements. Eligible employers include public and volunteer fire departments and EMS units. The grant supports purchase of specific protective equipment and facility infrastructure, such as diesel exhaust capture systems, gear washers, and protective clothing. Applicants must contribute required cost-sharing to be eligible.
Program description
We offer the Firefighter Exposure to Environmental Elements Grant (FEEEG) to assist you as an employer in minimizing exposure to dangerous environmental elements. If eligible, this program is available if you wish to purchase the following qualified/allowed items for optimal protection against these exposures: Diesel exhaust systems (local source (tailpipe) capture, not general dilution/filtration ventilation) Extractors/washing machines for turnout gear or personal protective equipment Hoods with barrier protection Turnout gear (volunteer firefighters and EMS units only) Turnout gear drying machines Washable gloves (structural firefighter glove or one that meets the requirements of NFPA 1971)
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Details
This grant is for Ohio-based fire departments and emergency services purchasing equipment to reduce firefighter exposure to hazardous environmental elements. Eligible employers include public and volunteer fire departments and EMS units. The grant supports purchase of specific protective equipment and facility infrastructure, such as diesel exhaust capture systems, gear washers, and protective clothing. Applicants must contribute required cost-sharing to be eligible.
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Equipment quotes/vendor estimates
- Cost-sharing documentation
- Organization documentation (nonprofit or government status)
- Description of occupational health need
- Budget narrative/justification
Program contact
- 👤 BWC Division of Safety & Hygiene Grant Programs
- 📧 grants@bwc.ohio.gov
- 📞 (614) 466-1320
FAQ
Who can apply for FEEEG?
Fire departments and EMS units in Ohio that employ or engage firefighters. The program covers both public and volunteer organizations.
What equipment does FEEEG fund?
Diesel exhaust systems, extractors/washers for turnout gear, protective hoods, turnout gear (volunteer units only), drying machines, and compliant firefighter gloves.
Is cost-sharing required?
Yes. Applicants must contribute a share of project costs to receive grant funding.
What is the deadline?
Deadline is June 30, 2026. Check with Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation for application windows and submission details.
Can we apply for multiple equipment categories?
Likely yes, but contact the program administrator to confirm which combinations are eligible and how many items you can request.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Focus your application on how the equipment directly reduces documented occupational health risks for your personnel.
- Provide detailed cost estimates and quotes from vendors for all requested items.
- Explain your cost-sharing contribution clearly—show how your organization will fund the match requirement.
- Document current exposure conditions and hazards your department faces to justify equipment needs.
- Connect your purchase to OSHA standards, NFPA requirements, or health outcome data specific to your firefighters.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Requesting non-approved equipment or equipment that doesn't meet specific standard requirements (NFPA 1971 for gloves). Underestimating or unclear cost-sharing contributions. Failing to document current occupational health risks and why the equipment is necessary.
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