When you go to work, you expect that your employer has taken care to make the workplace safe. However, sometimes a violation of specific safety requirement (VSSR) happens and an injury occurs because of this violation.

The State of Ohio knows this is a problem and there are rules in place to address this situation. Employers have a legal obligation to protect their employees and provide a safe working environment. 

So, what is a violation of specific safety requirement?

A VSSR occurs where an employer did not follow a specific State of Ohio safety regulation that results in an injury, illness or death. If the Ohio Industrial Commission determines this, an Injured Worker may receive additional compensation or benefits. 

So, how is a Violation of Specific Safety Requirement determined? The State looks at a few things, including:

• Was the required applicable safety regulation(s) in place at the time of the injury?
• Did the Employer fail to comply with the requirements of the specific safety regulation(s)?
• Did the violation cause an injury, illness or death?

In some situations, even if the Injured Worker was at fault for the accident, the employer might still be held liable if they violated a safety requirement(s). 

Under Ohio law, you have one year from the date of your injury to file a VSSR application. 

If you or someone you love was injured at work and you believe the Employer was at fault for violating a state safety requirement, it is always a good idea to contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. 

Connor Kimmet and Hafenstein LLP

If you have questions about filing a violation of specific safety requirement, we have a qualified workers’ compensation attorney to help. Contact us today.