Ohio Workers' Compensation Coverage Information

Working Outside of Ohio – Are You Covered?

Some states require their own workers’ compensation coverage if an employee works there, even for a short time. To avoid fines, penalties, or stop‑work orders, employers should understand exterritorial coverage and Other States Coverage.

Extraterritorial Coverage (What Ohio Already Provides)
If your Ohio employees work temporarily in another state, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) usually still covers them.
There is no set time limit as long as the work is only temporary and connected to their Ohio job.

Other States Coverage (Optional Protection)
Sometimes, another state may not accept Ohio’s coverage. When that happens, you could face coverage gaps or penalties.
Ohio offers an optional Other States Coverage policy to help with this.

This optional policy:
• Fills any gaps in coverage
• Protects your business from penalties or stop‑work orders in other states
• Keeps employees covered at an affordable price

For more information on this topic, visit Out-of-state employee coverage

Did You Know? A Spring Clean Can Boost Workplace Safety!

Did you know that cluttered or disorganized work areas are a leading contributor to workplace injuries each year? Spring is the perfect time to reset your space. A focused “spring cleaning” not only keeps your environment looking its best—it also helps reduce trip hazards, improves visibility, and minimizes fire risks.

A few simple spring-cleaning steps can make a big difference:
• Remove unnecessary items and clear walkways to prevent slips, trips, and falls
• Organize tools, equipment, and supplies so they’re easy to find and safely stored
• Dispose of outdated chemicals and ensure proper labeling of all remaining materials
• Wipe down surfaces and equipment to spot wear, damage, or maintenance needs early
• Review emergency exits and ensure they’re accessible and free of obstructions

A little cleanup goes a long way in creating a safer, more efficient workplace. Encouraging your team to take part helps build a safety-focused culture—one clean step at a time!

Join Us for April’s BWC Employer Update Webinar

Stay connected with the latest information from BWC by attending our April Employer Update Webinar. This month’s session will walk you through claim determination processes, elective coverage options, the Safety Council program, key upcoming deadlines, and a featured safety tip. The session is designed to be brief—about 25 minutes.

Click these links to register:

• 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14th

• 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 30th

Recordings from previous webinars can be found on our website. 

Past Monthly Employer Update Webinar Recordings

Elevate Your Safety Skills!

Get ready—The Office of Safety Services is rolling out an exciting lineup of training opportunities designed to take your safety expertise to the next level. Whether you join BWC’s dynamic in-person classes or engage in our convenient virtual sessions, you’ll gain powerful, hands‑on tools to enhance your workplace safety culture and protect your team.

Don’t miss your chance to:
• Put proven safety practices into action
• Stay ahead of evolving regulations and industry trends
• Strengthen your organization’s risk‑reduction strategies

 

Here is a link to the April Office of Safety Services Learning Opportunities

For full details and registration, visit www.bwclearningcenter.com

Better You, Better Ohio!® – Boost Productivity with a FREE Employee Wellness Program

When your workforce feels well, they perform well.  This helps your business thrive. The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) makes that easier with Better You, Better Ohio!® (BYBO), a no‑cost wellness program for small employers (250 or fewer employees) in high‑risk industries who currently don’t offer a wellness program.

How Your Business Benefits
• Support healthier habits that can reduce injuries and time away from work
• Improve morale and help retain great employees
• Enjoy a fully funded program—BWC pays the entire cost

What Your Employees Receive
• Convenient tools and resources to support their well‑being
• Up to $225 in rewards for completing activities such as:
o A personal health assessment
o A biometric screening
o Health coaching and activity challenges

Ready to See How Simple It Is?
Join one of our monthly BYBO webinars to learn how easily you can bring this program to your workplace—and start seeing the difference!

Register for the upcoming webinar on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 10a.m.

Explore the program at our partner’s site:

Active Health - Better You, Better Ohio!

Stay Updated: News and Events
Visit our News & Events page to keep up with the latest announcements and essential information. The section includes a detailed calendar with important dates, program updates, enrollment timelines, and upcoming activities.

Deadlines for public and private employers are quickly approaching—make sure you’re prepared and informed.

Click the link below to access the most recent updates:

News | Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (ohio.gov)