News and Analysis
OMA Updates Workplace Safety Resources Document
June 12, 2020In case you missed it, the OMA has updated its collection of resources to address general workplace safety concerns during COVID-19. This document includes updated guidance on the use of face coverings/masks, cleaning and disinfecting, employee health checks, and reporting confirmed or suspected COVID-19 cases. 6/9/2020
Update: Ohio BWC’s Frequently Asked Questions During COVID-19
June 12, 2020The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) has updated its COVID-19 FAQ document. This list of questions and answers includes information on the BWC’s recently announced premium deferral for June, July and August. 6/9/2020
Thermal Imaging Systems in the Workplace: Panacea or Problem?
June 12, 2020Employers are looking for better ways to monitor whether individuals entering their workplaces have been exposed to or are infected with COVID-19. The use of more sophisticated thermal scanning cameras or similar systems that can process many people quickly has emerged as a possible solution. OMA Connections Partner Fisher Phillips has published this insight to examine the advantages and disadvantages of using this technology. 6/8/2020
Cleaning Tips for Frequently Touched Electronic Devices
June 5, 2020The COVID-19 pandemic has made us acutely aware that electronic devices are among the most frequently touched surfaces by employees — and an easy way to spread the coronavirus. USA Today recently published this handy list of cleaning tips for phones, tablets and other electronic devices with surfaces on which the coronavirus can survive for up to 72 hours. 6/3/2020
OMA Updates Face Coverings Guidance Document
June 5, 2020Following the release of Ohio’s latest public health order late last Friday, May 29, the OMA has updated its guidance document on masks and face coverings. The OMA worked to include exceptions on the use of masks in the manufacturing workplace due to high temperatures, or employees separated by more than six feet or by a barrier. Mask exceptions should still be documented to explain why an employee is not wearing a face covering. 6/4/2020
OMA Testifies Against PTSD Bill
June 5, 2020This week, the OMA provided opponent testimony on House Bill 308, legislation to allow first responders to receive PTSD benefits through workers’ compensation in the absence of a physical injury. In its testimony, the OMA stated that it has historically opposed proposals to permit PTSD compensation in cases in which there is no associated physical injury or illness — and that “the adoption of a mental-only diagnosis would mark a significant change to the Ohio workers’ compensation system.” The OMA outlined other potential avenues to provide benefits to first responders for lawmakers’ consideration. 6/4/2020
BWC’s Next Employer Webinar Set for June 9
June 5, 2020The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation will hold its monthly 25-minute employer update webinar at 1:30 p.m. (ET) on Tuesday, June 9, as well as at 11:30 a.m. (ET) on Thursday, June 25. This month’s webinar will cover updates on COVID-19, policy year 2020 renewal, the annual true-up report, and reminders of important BWC dates. The webinar will last about 25 minutes. To attend this month’s webinar, or to see recordings of previous webinars, click here. 6/3/2020
BWC Offers Free Safety Webinars: June Lineup
June 5, 2020Several free safety webinars are being offered by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation this month. Details and registration links can be found here. 6/2/2020
Ohio BWC Defers Premiums for Next Three Months
May 29, 2020The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) is deferring employers’ premium installments for the months of June, July and August. Businesses will have the option to defer the monthly premium payments with no financial penalties. This is the second payment deferral BWC has authorized since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The deferral is designed to help employers focus financial resources on re-opening their businesses under the Responsible RestartOhio Plan. 5/28/2020
Business Groups Send Letter Opposing PTSD Legislation
May 29, 2020The OMA and allied business associations this week sent a letter to the members of the Senate General Government and Agency Review Committee, outlining their opposition to House Bill 308 — legislation that would allow first responders to receive Ohio workers’ compensation benefits if diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), even without an accompanying physical injury. The coalition urged lawmakers to consider alternatives to provide PTSD benefits to first responders. 5/28/2020