Employers also need protocols in place so that injuries and illnesses are handled properly, and the costs and recovery times are kept to a minimum.
Insurance brokers are hit and miss when it comes to support, so make sure you choose your business teammates wisely. At Focus HR, Inc., our motto is Protecting People and Performance with Principles and that means:
- You have an injury reporting plan in place that offers clear direction for both the employee and employer. Communication is critical to ensuring quality care. Poor communication can lead to lawsuits.
- Your staff has access to a list of nearby occupational health clinics and specialist referrals, ensuring quick care.
- We report the incident on your behalf to the insurance carrier the same day that you get the information to us.
- We provide recovery support for the injured employee so he/she can return to work, sometimes on “modified duty,” which can eliminate Temporary Total Disability (TTD) payments and control your rising Experience Modifier (EMOD.)
- A qualified team of experts conducts a thorough investigation of the injury and claim.
Of course, that investigation is critical to a successful outcome. A seasoned professional will leave no stone unturned and might even uncover attempts at fraud.
Best practices for workplace injury and illness investigations should include:
- Immediate reporting
- A written employee statement
- A written witness statement
- A supervisor’s report
- Internal follow-up to review all documents and establish corrective action, if necessary.
To see the U.S. Department of Labor’s OSHA Injury and Illness Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements click here.
To speak with Focus HR, Inc. about your protocols click here.