Companies are recognized in three categories, depending on size: micro (fewer than 50 employees), medium (50-500 employees) and large (more than 500 employees).

The application process previously started in the fall but now begins in January because organizers wanted the process to be conducted in a calendar year.

"It's a much quicker turnaround for companies, and they don't have to wait to hear back from us," said Pamela Ballo, the award coordinator.

The application deadline is Feb. 15. Applicants must fill out a company profile on the department's Web site - jobs.utah.gov/opencms/occ/worklife/awards/ - and submit an employee questionaire and a letter from the chief executive. An on-site visit from a member of the state's Work/Life Award team will be conducted later.

Winners will be announced in May.

This year, Workforce Services also will designate one Utah firm as a "legacy company." Companies that have won the Work/Life award for five years are eligible, said Pamela Ballo, the department's award coordinator. A variety of criteria will be used to judge the applications.

ARUP Laboratories has won a Work/Life Award for seven straight years, every year it has applied. The company plans to apply again this year, said spokeswoman Teresa Jenkins, emphasizing its free on-site health clinic with a staff physician, a subsidized cafeteria and pet insurance for employees.

blange@sltrib.com