BWC updates requirements for Drug-Free Safety Program training

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) recently updated rule 4123-17-58 for their Drug Free Safety Program and Comparable program.  The new rule became effective July 1, 2023. BWC emailed notifications to program participants in May regarding the following rule changes:

• Basic and Advanced Level participants must maintain all supporting documentation and be prepared to submit additional information upon request.  Invoices and sign in sheets shall be included for all employees that have completed drug testing and training & educational requirements.

• Train-the-trainer materials need to be refreshed at least every five years.  Employers are also asked to include the invoice or supporting documents with their supplemental information.

• Employers in the comparable program are now required to complete employee and supervisor refresher training annually.  Previously, training was just required one time.

• Contractors must submit a DFSP testing and education plan for inclusion on the list of public improvement construction project contractors. 

• For those employers that have worked on a state project during the program year, company records showing at least 5% random drug testing must be maintained or that they were included in a consortium while on the project.

For additional information regarding these changes, please visit the BWC’s Drug-Free Safety Program page here:  https://info.bwc.ohio.gov/for-employers/workers-compensation-coverage/rates-and-bonuses/drug-free-safety-program

If you have any questions regarding premium installments or the true-up process, contact our Sedgwick program manager, Julia Bowling, at julia.bowling@sedgwick.com or phone 513-218-4062.