Workers’ compensation has always been about people, but the “human factor” is taking center stage in a way we haven’t seen before. Employers tend to think of injuries as mechanical problems, slips, trips, machinery, equipment, ergonomics. But the forces driving claim frequency and severity this year have far more to do with how people feel, […]
The Human Factor: How Fatigue, Aging Workforces, and Turnover Will Drive Workers’ Comp Costs This Year
How major crises reshape workers comp responsibilities
Major workplace crises, whether natural disasters or acts of violence, always leave behind more than physical damage. They reveal gaps in preparedness, expose weaknesses in response systems, and place lasting burdens on the affected workers. Two recent events, the Los Angeles wildfires and the Virginia school shooting verdict, underscore how employers must rethink workers compensation […]
Fentanyl surge and high marijuana positivity in random workplace tests have employers worried
Fentanyl Employers have long used pre-employment drug screening as a key safeguard to protect workplace safety and control workers compensation costs. Historically, differences between pre-employment and random drug testing results have been modest across most substances. However, data from the Quest Diagnostics Drug Testing Index suggests this is changing. Over the past five years, random (unannounced, […]
Back On The Job Programs Are Good Business
Don’t Wait for an Injury: How a Return-to-Work Program Protects Your Business An employee gets hurt on the job. What’s your plan? Too often, the answer is a scramble. A supervisor is told to “find something” for the injured employee to do, leading to an awkward and unproductive situation for everyone. This reactive approach is […]
Dealing With Employees Who Do Not Return To Work
A Leader’s Guide to Managing Return-to-Work Challenges Even the best companies face situations where an injured employee is reluctant or unable to return to work. Managing this process correctly is not just about systems or policies; it’s about clear communication and decisive action that guides behavior. When an employee stays off the job, your business […]
Return To Work Programs Getting Started
Build a Bulletproof Return-to-Work Program: Your First Steps An effective Return-to-Work program is simple, practical, and tailored to your business. The first and most critical step is to put your plan in writing. A written plan moves your program from a vague idea to an official company policy. It sets clear expectations for everyone involved, […]
Eight Dos And Donts Of Using Mobile Apps In The Workplace
A Practical Guide to Using Mobile Apps for Workplace Safety Mobile apps can be powerful tools for improving workplace safety. They offer instant communication, on-demand access to safety protocols, and real-time worksite analysis. However, apps must supplement your safety program, not replace it. They are a tool, not a strategy. To integrate them effectively, follow […]
A Culture Of Caring Is The Secret To Optimizing Performance For Many Companies
How to Cut Workers’ Comp Claims: Build a Culture of Safety Many business leaders believe that strict rules and penalties are the keys to a safe workplace. This approach is fundamentally flawed. If you want to slash your workers’ compensation costs and create a more productive environment, you must shift your focus from enforcement to […]
Are You Making Workers Comp Employee Friendly By Kevin Ring
How to Help Clients Make Workers’ Comp Employee Friendly Both in the media and in general conversation, we often hear people refer to the workers’ compensation laws in various states as being very “employee friendly” because they feel that it’s easy for injured employees to get more than they “deserve” from the workers’ comp system. […]
Asleep At The Wheel
Fatigue: Your Company’s Most Dangerous Blind Spot Employee fatigue is more than a human resources issue—it is a direct and costly threat to your business. When your team is overworked and exhausted, the risk of a catastrophic accident skyrockets. The Risk on the Road Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of work-related deaths in […]