Do your employees know about their right to workers compensation insurance? You would be surprised at how many people have no idea about it. Of course, those who work in the high-risk areas of construction and manual labor know; but what about places like banks, salons, record labels, etc.? Any company with more than three employees must have it, but barely anyone really knows about the coverage. A recent survey showed that only 38% of 610 adults with jobs knew that workers comp existed.
As their employer, you should let them know about their amazing coverage. Let them know that if they're injured or become sick due to work, they'll receive benefits no matter who's fault it is. Make sure if an injury does happen, that you take the proper steps with human resources to get that employee their benefits.
It's also a good idea to have the physician put into writing exactly what the injury was, and when to expect the employee back at work. Give a copy to your employee and keep one for your company records.
Consider giving the injured employee work to do that will "fit" with their injury. If they can't move due to a back injury, think about giving them paperwork to do. If they have a broken arm, have them dictate ideas or make phone calls with their good arm. Think about anything that they could still do while injured.
Make sure you learn from the mistake that was made. Whatever caused the accident, fix it and make sure that it never happens again. Post safety rules, have monthly safety meetings, and watch what your employees are doing. Check out the entire workplace to make sure nothing is an accident waiting to happen. Is everyone trained on how to use the equipment properly?
No one can predict an accident, but there is a lot you can do to prevent them. For more information on workers compensation and other business insurance, contact us today! We're Collins Insurance, an independent agency based in Ludlow, Massachusetts.
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