Robert Hess and Company Insurance Brokers

09.03.08
Tips to Control Worker’s Comp Costs

• Match a worker’s skills and abilities to their job.
• Make safety a job priority.  It’s far less expensive to prevent an accident than to pay for one.
• Fix dangerous conditions.  Failure to take corrective measures when you become aware of a hazard creates the potential for a “Serious and Willful Misconduct” suit.
• Train supervisors.  Supervisors and managers are included in the definition of “employer” in workers’ comp law.
• Report employee injuries as soon as you become aware of them.
• Provide claim forms within one day of learning of an injury.  Forward the completed form to your insurance provider immediately.
• Refer the injured worker to an approved medical provider if you plan requires one.
• Keep in touch with the injured worker throughout their recuperation period.
• Allow workers to return to their jobs as soon as possible, altering their responsibilities as necessary, either temporarily or permanently.
• Maintain good records in the employee’s personnel file.