When a workplace injury occurs, knowing your responsibilities as an employer is key to ensuring compliance with Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) regulations, and supporting your employee’s safe and timely recovery. Acting quickly and following the proper steps helps minimize disruption, control costs, and demonstrate care for your workforce.
1. Ensure Immediate Medical Attention
Your first priority should always be the safety and well-being of your employee. Make sure the injured worker receives prompt medical care. For emergencies, call 911 or direct the employee to the nearest hospital. For non-emergency injuries, they should be treated by a BWC-certified medical provider.
2. Report the Injury Promptly
Employers must promptly report any workplace injury, occupational disease, or death to the BWC by completing the First Report of Injury (FROI) form. Delays in reporting can slow the claims process and potentially increase costs.
3. Maintain Communication
Keep open lines of communication with the injured employee. Discuss their recovery progress, provide updates on claim status, and show support for their return-to-work goals. Maintaining a positive relationship can lead to smoother claims management and a quicker recovery.
4. Cooperate with Your MCO and TPA
Your Managed Care Organization (MCO) and Third-Party Administrator (TPA) play vital roles in managing claims, coordinating medical care, and ensuring proper documentation. Be proactive in providing information they need—such as job descriptions, injury details, and potential modified-duty options.
5. Explore Return-to-Work Options
Ohio employers are encouraged to offer transitional or modified duty work whenever possible. This helps injured workers stay connected to the workplace, reduces claim costs, and often leads to better long-term outcomes.
6. Keep Accurate Records
Document all incidents, communications, and return-to-work efforts. Accurate and timely documentation protects your business and ensures compliance with Ohio’s workers’ compensation laws.
A Partner in Your Corner
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be complex—but you don’t have to do it alone. Partnering with an experienced TPA like Sheakley ensures that your claims are handled efficiently and in full compliance with Ohio BWC requirements. From claims management to safety support and return-to-work planning, their team helps you protect both your employees and your bottom line.
Member Cost Saving Programs
Offering an extensive portfolio of money-saving programs for our members, when combined, Cincinnati Chamber member benefits can save you thousands of dollars a year on necessary business expenses. Learn how your Chamber membership can pay for itself by taking a look at our ChamberComp program.
ChamberComp®
Save up to 53% on your workers’ comp premiums through the ChamberComp® Program in partnership with Sheakley.