Yes—but there are important limits. Under Ohio law (House Bill 447), injuries sustained while working from home are generally not covered unless:
- The injury arose directly from your job duties.
- The injury was caused by a specific work-related hazard.
- The activity was done exclusively for your employer’s benefit.
What counts as a “special hazard”?
A “special hazard” is a work-related risk that is either unique or greater than what the general public faces. Ohio courts require proof that:
- You wouldn’t have been in the place where the injury happened but for your job.
- The risk was distinctive to your work duties—not an everyday household hazard.
What does “in the course of” and “arising out of” employment mean for remote work?
To qualify for benefits, the injury must:
- Happen while performing your job duties (“in the course of” employment).
- Be caused by risks directly related to your work (“arising out of” employment). For remote workers, this also means the injury must involve a special work-related hazard and be for your employer’s exclusive benefit.
How can remote workers protect their right to compensation?
- Follow your employer’s remote work policies.
- Keep clear records of your work activities and schedule.
- Report any injuries to your employer immediately.
- Make sure your injury occurred while doing work solely for your employer.
Can remote workers ever recover for injuries at home?
Yes, but only if the injury meets Ohio’s strict legal standards:
- It must arise directly from your work.
- It must be caused by a special hazard related to your job.
- It must occur during an activity done exclusively for your employer.
Are pre-existing conditions covered if aggravated while working remotely?
Pre-existing conditions are not covered unless the work injury substantially worsened the condition. This must be supported by objective medical evidence—not just personal complaints.