Workers Comp Overview
Workers compensation insurance is required in every state except Texas. It pay for injuries and illnesses that happen at work. Employers are liable even if the employee caused the injury. Workers comp can cover all these areas:
- Injuries or loss of limbs
- Work-related illnesses like emphysema or carpal tunnel syndrome
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation to help employee get back to work
- Lost wages (up to two-thirds of the employee's salary)
- Death
- Liability insurance for the business is employee sues
Every injury is different, and benefits vary depending on the severity of injury or illness. Six major types of benefits include:
- medical care
- temporary disability benefits
- permanent disability benefits
- vocational rehabilitation services
- job displacement benefits
- death benefits
Usually your rates are set for 3 years, after which the insurer reviews how many claims,etc. you have had and resets your rates accordingly. Fewer, less expensive claims can earn you a refund from some insurers. Additional discounts are also offered for building safety practices.
- prepare for your audit just like you would an IRS audit – learn more here
- keep workspace clean and healthy
- keep everyone educated about risk and injury procedures
- give healthy breaks to your employees and be sure they are rested and alert at work
- assist and encourage employees to get rehabilitation and return to work as soon as they can safely
- provide on-going safety training and building safety inspections
- keep air well-ventilated and change air filters regularly
- develop a zero tolerance injury culture
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