Workers compensation insurance is nearly always required for businesses that employee people. This type of business insurance helps to cover losses related to employee-related illness and injury. When an incident occurs, business owners may find that their insurance costs rise. It's always in the best interest of the business and its employee that the company takes steps to minimize risks associated with common workplace safety matters. Risks are in all businesses, but some companies can reduce the risks and potential workers compensation claims by implementing an effective safety plan.
What is a Safety Plan?
A safety plan is a specific, step-by-step process designed to reduce risks within a business. You can talk to your insurance company about offering these recommendations. You can hire a third-party to offer suggestions. Depending on the industry, OSHA may also help you create a safety plan. Ultimately, the goal is to make your business operations as safe as possible to reduce the likelihood of employees becoming ill or hurt on the job.
What Can a Safety Plan Include?
One of the most important components of safety plans in businesses is that they are designed specifically for one business location. This allows the plan to be focused on the underlying risks of that particular location. Here are some examples of what may be included in your plan:
- Do you have safety procedures in place for all high-risk areas? This may include steps on how to protect against falls or burns. You may also have very specific procedures for cleaning equipment.
- Do you have a training program focused on safety?
- Do you encourage a healthy work environment? This can include offering non-smoking programs, wellness programs such as a local gym membership, or providing health insurance.
With these types of safety steps in place, you may be able to reduce the risks associated with your employees becoming ill or being hurt on the job. As a direct result of this, you may see your workers compensation insurance costs drop. Some companies will even work with you to establish such a plan so you qualify for a lower rate. Ultimately, though, it helps your employees to remain safe and minimizes the financial risk your company has to face in the event of a loss.
How safe if your business? Call JSW Insurance at (925) 737-1560 for more information on Bay Area workers compensation insurance.