workers comp compliance

Most states in the U.S. require employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance policies for their employees. If a worker is injured on the job, these policies provide disability and medical benefits based on a formula approved by each state. Unless the business falls into an exemption category (usually reserved for smaller companies with less than four employees), a non-compliant employer can be fined, prosecuted, or found liable in a civil case. Here are some tips for ensuring compliance with workers’ compensation policies.

Understand the Legalities

There are a number of laws and requirements governing workers’ comp, so it’s important to stay abreast of current policies. Here are some tips to remain compliant with standard requirements of workers’ comp law:

  • Work with a nationally licensed insurance provider.
  • Provide workers’ compensation policies for every employer who is not an owner.
  • Research, understand, and comply with your state’s laws.
  • Post the following documentation in a visible place:
    • Proof of coverage certificate
    • Employee rights
    • State and federal labor laws

Create a Safe Workspace

The best way to avoid workers’ compensation claims is to remove the opportunities for employee accidents. This can be accomplished by maintaining a healthy and safe work environment without hazards and following these tips:

  • Research trends in workplace accidents and injuries
  • Implement OSHA and NIOSH safety programs
  • Outline safety procedures
  • Train employees 
  • Highlight safety at regular business meetings
  • Ask your insurer about safety program resources

Respond Appropriately to Injuries

Establishing safety precautions is a helpful step toward saving money on workers’ compensation claims, but accidents cannot be completely avoided. When an injury occurs, ensure you respond with the appropriate steps.

  • Ensure the injured worker receives proper medical attention.
  • Provide claim forms to the injured employee as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours of the accident.
  • Carefully follow the mandates set forth in the workers’ compensation claims process published by your state, or you may be subject to fines. This includes filing an injury report with the workers’ compensation office.
  • The claims process requires you to maintain detailed, organized, and current records. Collect witness statements and save them with all claim correspondence and related paperwork in a dedicated folder.
  • Maintain continued communication with the injured employee.
  • Review your coverage on an annual basis to ensure you are still in compliance. 

No Retaliation

Workers’ compensation laws protect both injured employees and their employers. To ensure this protection extends fairly in both directions, it’s critical that employers refrain from discriminating against, punishing, or discharging employees who file for workers’ compensation benefits. If an employee feels that retaliatory discharge has taken place, he or she may have a legal right to file a suit. State laws protect employees from such retaliatory behavior.

Workers’ compensation policies may vary across states, but the primary goal is to protect the employee and employer. To ensure your business remains compliant, conduct regular reviews of state laws and utilize your insurance company as a valuable resource.

About InsureMyWorkComp 

InsureMyWorkComp is a digital brokerage that helps clients find the right workers’ compensation solution for their business needs. Unlike other online platforms, we will help you to work with an agent who can provide you the right solution for your risk profile. Our staff has over 50 years of workers’ compensation underwriting and sales experience, and we are confident that we will provide you the support that you need. For more information or to get a quote, contact us today at (855) 340-9138.