Things you should know
NSC launches several free initiatives to combat overdoses in the workplace
To help combat overdoses in the workplace, the National Safety Council (NSC) is offering free opioid overdose eLearning resources, an online workplace well-being hub, and the availability of bulk online purchasing of Narcan® (naloxone) nasal spray for employers nationwide.
Updated WCMSA Reference Guide released April 1
Version 4.0 of the WCMSA Reference Guide is now available. Chapter 1 provides a summary of changes.
Distracted driving on the increase
According to the 2024 Travelers Risk Index many of the common distractions that had been declining have rebounded in recent years, with some even surpassing pre-pandemic figures. Crashes and near misses due to distracted driving have also increased.
New report on crane safety hazards and tech solutions
The most common crane-related hazards and how technology may help solve them are detailed in a new report from NSC's Work to Zero and the NCCCO Foundation.
WCRI study: Injured workers face greater psychosocial risks during recovery
Injured workers are more likely to experience psychosocial risk factors that can lead to "poorer functional recovery," according to a recent study from the Workers Compensation Research Institute (WCRI). Approximately 33 percent of workers' compensation patients with low back pain had high scores for psychosocial risk factors, such as poor coping, catastrophizing, fear avoidance, perceived injustice, and poor recovery expectations. Early identification of psychosocial risk factors is recommended.
Employers should prepare for an extremely active hurricane season
Forecasters are predicting one of the most active hurricane seasons on record. Colorado State University issued its Atlantic hurricane forecast, with a prediction of 23 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes. For comparison, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the average hurricane season between 1991 and 2020 comprised roughly 14 tropical storms, seven hurricanes, and three major hurricanes.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
It's a good time to emphasize the importance of mental well-being and reinforce destigmatizing conversations around mental health.
New video focuses on bolstering the safety climate on construction worksites
Created by CPWR, The Center for Construction Research and Training, the video offers eight ways to improve safety outcomes.
New tower worker video explores common electrical hazards
The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association offers advice in a new video created to raise worker awareness of electrical hazards.
PHMSA publishes FAQs on training requirements
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) recently published FAQs on training requirements. The FAQs were developed based on letters of interpretation applicable to hazardous materials regulations.
NCCI study examines impact of wage on temporary disability benefits
According to a report by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI), the relationship between wages and the duration of temporary disability benefits is complex, influenced by factors such as the worker's age, state, economic sector, and medical condition. Sixty-seven to 113 days is the average duration of temporary disability (TD) benefits, with younger workers (aged 29 and below) at the lower end and older workers (65 and above) at the higher end.
State News
California
- The Workers' Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau is recommending that the Department of Insurance increase the advisory pure premium rate by 0.9 percent.
- The Division of Workers' Compensation has updated the time-of-hire notice that employers are required to give to new employees by the end of the first pay period.
- Changes in workers' compensation classifications for restaurant and hospitality sectors are set to take effect on Sept. 1. The update introduces six new classifications within the restaurant and hospitality sectors to reflect the diverse operations and risk profiles across the industry.
Florida
- Gov. Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 433, which prevents local governments from establishing or requiring employers to establish heat exposure requirements that are not otherwise required under state or federal law.
- WCRI reports indemnity benefits per claim grew 12.9 percent in 2022, driven by a 9.5 percent increase in wages for workers with injuries and a 0.6-week increase in the average duration of temporary disability.
Illinois
- WCRI reports indemnity benefits per claim increased 9 percent in 2022, driven by a four percent increase in wages for workers with injuries and a nearly one-week increase in the average duration of temporary disability.
Pennsylvania
- The Insurance Department and Department of Labor & Industry announced a 7.88 percent reduction in loss costs. Premium savings will vary based on an employer's risk classification and other factors.
Virginia
- Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed House Bill 205, which requires payment for health care services that an employer doesn't deny or contest must be made to providers within 60 days of receipt. If a portion of a claim is contested or denied, an employer or its workers comp insurer must notify providers within 45 days of receipt of the bill. It also established a one-year statute of limitations for medical billing disputed without regard to the date services were provided.
Wisconsin
- Lawmakers voted down a bill that would have created a rebuttable presumption of compensability for workers injured by employer-mandated vaccines. They also voted not to advance a bill that would have required a less stringent standard for PTSD for certain first responders.
- WCRI reports indemnity benefits per claim grew by 10 percent in 2022, driven by a six percent growth in wages and an increase of nearly one week in the average duration of temporary disability.