Role and Scope
The Office of Workers' Compensation (OWC) within the U.S. Department of Labor oversees federal policies that ensure injured workers receive medical care, wage replacement, and rehabilitation. It administers regulations for federal employers, advises state agencies on best practices, and provides guidance on compliance with the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA) and the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA).
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Key Services
OWC delivers several core services:
- Policy development and regulatory updates for federal workers' comp programs.
- Technical assistance to agencies and contractors handling claims.
- Training resources for claims administrators and safety officers.
- Data collection and analysis to improve injury prevention strategies.
How to File a Claim
Employees covered by federal workers' compensation must report injuries promptly. The standard steps are:
Failure to file within the statutory window can jeopardize benefits.
Compliance and Enforcement
OWC monitors compliance through audits, site visits, and data reviews. Agencies found non‑compliant may face corrective action plans, mandatory training, or, in severe cases, civil penalties. The office also publishes annual compliance reports that highlight trends and common violations.
Contact Information
For direct assistance, the OWC maintains a centralized help desk:
| Channel | Details | Hours (ET) |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | 1‑800‑555‑1234 | 8 am – 6 pm, Mon‑Fri |
| workerscomp@dol.gov | 24 / 7 | |
| Online Portal | dol.gov/owc/claims | Always available |
Resources for Employers
Employers can access OWC's toolkit, which includes:
- Standard operating procedures for claim intake.
- Templates for injury reporting and documentation.
- Guidelines on return‑to‑work programs and accommodations.
These resources help align internal processes with federal requirements and reduce the risk of costly disputes.