Who Needs Workers' Comp in Oregon?
Oregon requires all employers with one or more workers subject to Oregon workers' compensation law to carry coverage under ORS Chapter 656. This includes part-time, temporary, and seasonal workers. Sole proprietors and partners can elect coverage but are not required to carry it. Corporate officers are automatically covered but may opt out with proper filing.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Oregon penalties include fines up to $1,000 for a first offense and up to $5,000 for subsequent offenses. The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) can issue stop-work orders. Uninsured employers are liable for all injury costs plus civil penalties and can be sued directly by injured employees.
How Oregon Rates Work
Oregon uses NCCI class codes but has its own rate-setting process through the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services. SAIF Corporation (State Accident Insurance Fund) is the state-chartered workers' comp carrier that serves as the insurer of last resort while also competing actively in the open market. SAIF is one of the largest carriers in Oregon and provides a reliable option alongside private insurers.
Common Oregon Class Codes
| Code | Description | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| 8810 | Clerical Office Employees | Low |
| 8742 | Outside Salespersons | Low |
| 9101 | Restaurant NOC | Medium |
| 0042 | Landscape Gardening & Maintenance | Medium |
| 2710 | Sawmills | Medium-High |
| 5403 | Carpentry NOC | Medium-High |
| 5551 | Roofing — All Kinds | High |