Federal OSHA applies
Private-sector employers in Ohio are governed by federal OSHA — 29 CFR Part 1910 for general industry and 29 CFR Part 1926 for construction. Federal OSHA Area Offices in Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, and Toledo cover enforcement.
Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC)
Ohio has a unique workers' compensation system — it is one of a few states with a state-funded workers' comp monopoly rather than private insurance. The BWC also administers safety consultation and grant programs for Ohio employers, separate from OSHA enforcement.
BWC Safety Consultation
The Ohio BWC provides free on-site safety consultations to help employers identify hazards and improve their safety programs. These consultations are separate from OSHA enforcement and do not result in citations.
OSHA 10 requirement
Ohio does not have a statewide law requiring OSHA 10 cards for construction workers. Many general contractors require cards contractually, particularly on commercial and public projects.
Public employees
Ohio state and local government employees are covered under Ohio's Public Employment Risk Reduction Program (PERRP), administered by the Ohio Department of Commerce. PERRP enforces safety standards for public sector workers using federal OSHA standards.
Reporting
Private-sector employers report severe injuries to federal OSHA. Public-sector employers report to PERRP.