Reducing Workers Compensation Expense and Liability
Depending on your industry, and the risks you may face, your liability for injuries and subsequent workers compensation claims may vary. Whether you are in a light or heavy risk industry, there are several things you can do to reduce the risk of injury, but also the impact of increased workers comp expense on your business.
Reducing workers compensation expense and liability is a long term process and it requires a consistent plan and course of action. Here are some ideas to get started:
- Promote a safe workplace – Make sure you have an active safety program that details the 8 primary OSHA regulations for communication and response. Regular safety meetings, safety inspections, and two-way communication with your employees about equipment or premises dangers can help reduce the chance of industry.
- Establish a Medical Provider Network – Sign up with a local industrial medical clinic either near your workplace, or if you have employees in the field, work with a larger or national MPN. Make sure employees understand and have information on where these MPN’s are located and that they know the process for treating, transporting and reporting injuries.
- Implement Injury Reporting and Return to Work Policies – Make sure your employees understand that reporting any sort of injury or safety incident to management immediately. Also, ensuring employees understand that should they be injured, the company will get them back to work as quickly as possible, and if possible, accommodate any temporary medical restrictions they may have.
- Quickly manage Injuries – If an injury or incident is reported, take it seriously and get the employee the proper medical attention they require immediately. Even if the injury seems minor, make sure you follow proper procedures. Get medical attention, investigate and document the incident, get eyewitness statements and report to your carrier.
- Communicate with the employee – If an employee is injured and is placed on temporary disability, stay close to that employee throughout the injury. Make sure you stay in touch also with the medical provider and claims adjuster so you receive updates on the employees progress.
Infinium can help you establish these programs so please contact us at info@infiniumhr.com if you do not have a solid work comp risk management plan in your workplace.