Workers compensation costs are on the rise again, and for business owners, this can mean paying big bucks. For employers looking to keep costs low, consider the following recommendations:
Workers Compensation Tips
1. Pre-Employment Physicals
Establish a policy that requires pre-employment physicals on new or prospective employees, including back X-rays and drug testing.
2. Establish an Accident Review Committee
An accident review committee is comprised of a group of employees who will review each claim with the injured employee. They investigate the accident and report to management any concerns pertaining to the cause of the accident. The committee is also tasked to make recommendations on preventive measures that will reduce the chances of a similar accident in the future.
3. Executive Review
A designated executive officer should review each and every first report of injury with the injured employee. They should review with the employee exactly what happened to cause the injury.
4. Employee Training
Pre-employment training programs should be established and implemented for all your employees. Once an employee is working, and an ongoing in-service program should be utilized to periodically review employee performance.
5. Safety Equipment – Training and Usage
Employees should be instructed in proper lifting techniques. They should also utilize lifting equipment whenever moving heavy materials. Employees should adhere to a policy of using safety equipment while performing any hazardous operations.
6. First Aid Training
Maintain a first aid kit at each location and give at least two employees first-aid training.
7. Machinery Safety
Machinery should be inspected to ensure they are equipped with necessary safety guards and shutoff switches to increase employee safety.
8. Ventilation
Ensure adequate ventilation of your shop to reduce the possibility of inhalation of carbon dioxide or other harmful chemical vapors.
9. Workspace Safety
Workspaces should be organized to enable employees to have adequate room between other stations. By having proper clearance, the company can reduce exposure of injury to employees by machinery.
10. Equipment Maintenance
Conduct regular maintenance inspections on all equipment used in your operations. Document inspections and retain records.
11. Loss Control Program Implementation
A written loss control and/or safety program should be established, implemented, and periodically reviewed by the company to minimize exposure to loss.
