Guide to Lowering Your Workers' Comp Costs

Incorporate ergonomics into the workplace

Most workplace injuries today are cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs), which are injuries that result from the stress of repetitive motion. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common office-related CTD. Ergonomics, the study of workplace equipment to increase productivity by reducing injury and discomfort, reduces instances of CTDs.

I recommend: Find ergonomic tips for your office on the AME Info site. Future Industrial Technologies offers ergonomics training programs.

Train your employees to make safety a priority

As obvious as it may sound, poorly trained employees account for all kinds of workplace injuries. Get employees involved and require that all workers complete safety training courses. Establish a written safety policy that is distributed to all employees.

I recommend: Safety training programs are available from the Painters and Allied Trades Labor Management Cooperation Initiative. Business and Legal Reports offers an audio conference training CD.

Verify workplace safety requirements

The number one way to cut workers' comp costs is to lower the incident rate. Get rid of clutter to prevent slips and falls. Make sure all chemicals or hazardous substances are stored in proper containers. In a job that involves any sort of physical labor, ensure that all workers receive instruction about their tasks. Seemingly obvious safety precautions should be rechecked on a regular basis for maximum prevention.

I recommend: NYSIF contains a safety checklist for your workplace.

Keep meticulous records

Require all employees to immediately report all incidents. Have a functioning method of managing claims. Once you have a solid compensation program in place, speedy implementation will result in lower costs.

I recommend: Software and other tools are available for tracking reports and minimizing company costs. System Interface Consultants has a page full of resources. Occupational Hazards has ways to reduce workers' comp costs.