One of the documents to be aware of as a worker is a first report of an injury, occupational disease or death (FROI). If you ever sustain a work-related injury or contract an occupational illness, you will need to use this form.
The following is what you should know about this important document, at minimum.
Who can file it?
Complete this form immediately after a work-related injury or as soon as you notice you have an occupational disease. You can get the form from your employer. Complete and submit it to them to file it with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).
You can also file a claim directly with the BWC by sending the FROI via mail or fax. Another option is to call the BWC to speak with a representative who will take down your information and file the claim for you. Or you can complete the electronic FROI through the BWC website.
Moreover, medical providers who treat work-related injuries often complete and submit the FROI at the first visit on behalf of the injured worker. Note that if your employer is self-insured, you’ll need to submit the FROI directly to them.
In sum, an FROI in Ohio can be filed by the employer, the injured worker or the medical provider. Regardless of the option you choose, it’s crucial to first notify your employer, supervisor or the HR department of your condition, to create an internal record.
When should the form be submitted?
Generally, you have one year from the date of an injury, the date of diagnosis of a disease or the date that a disability due to a work-related condition begins to file this form. If a licensed physician diagnoses a condition as work-related after the one-year deadline, an injured worker can file a claim within six months.
A work-related injury or occupational disease can affect your career. Learn more to take the appropriate steps to be justly compensated.