If you suffer a workplace injury in Ohio and your employer doesn’t report it, you face a serious issue. Ohio law requires employers to report injuries to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) when they result in seven or more days of lost work. When your employer ignores this duty, you must take action to protect your rights.
Your first actions after an injury
Act quickly to ensure your claim moves forward. Report your injury to your employer in writing as soon as possible—Ohio gives you one year from the injury date to file a claim, but delays can weaken your case. Seek medical attention from a BWC-certified provider and inform them it’s a work-related injury. This step creates an official record.
Next, consider these options to address your employer’s inaction:
- File a First Report of Injury (FROI-1) through the BWC website or at a local BWC office.
- Contact the BWC directly at 1-800-644-6292 to report the injury and request a claim number.
- Consult a workers’ compensation attorney if your employer resists or retaliates.
These steps ensure your injury gets documented and processed, even without your employer’s cooperation.
Legal protections under Ohio law
Ohio law supports you in this situation. Employers must maintain workers’ compensation coverage and cannot punish you for reporting an injury. If your employer refuses to file or threatens your job, they violate Ohio Revised Code 4123.90, which prohibits retaliation. You have 180 days from the retaliation to file a complaint with the BWC or pursue legal action.
Why reporting matters
Reporting your injury promptly keeps your claim active. If you wait too long, you risk losing medical coverage and wage replacement benefits. Filing yourself, or with help from a lawyer, ensures the BWC reviews your case within 28 days. Self-insured employers must still report to the BWC for claims exceeding seven lost days, so don’t let their inaction stop you.
Moving forward without employer support
You hold the power to act when your employer fails you. File your FROI-1, notify the BWC, and seek legal advice. Taking charge protects your health and financial stability under Ohio’s workers’ compensation system.