Without proper documentation a company is essentially asking for problems when a work-related injury occurs. Out-of-line workers’ compensation costs can be held in check by carefully recording every thing, step by step when an injury takes place: from the time the injury happens until the employee returns to work either in a transitional duty position or to full duty.
Seven Minimum Steps You Must Take
1. Document the incident in writing. Obtain information about the incident, the injury, and medical attention sought.
2. Complete these documents:
– Post Injury Interview
– Employee Report of Incident
– Witness Report Form
3. All witnesses and any persons who were nearby complete the Witness Report Form, even if they claim not to have witnessed the incident; the absence of witnesses is important also.
4. Documents are forwarded to the workers’ compensation manager.
5. Give the injury coordinator all necessary information report the claim.
6. Follow all protocol to identify and correction hazards connected with the injury. (Example: removing or repairing malfunctioning objects or equipment.) (workersxzcompxzkit)
7. Notify the injury coordinator when those steps are completed.
8. If you have a Medical Advisor who particpate in a “triage program” contact the Medical Advisor also.
Author: Robert Elliott, J.D.
Click on these links to try it for yourself.
WC Calculator: www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/calculator.php
TD Calculator: www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/transitional-duty-cost-calculator.php
WC 101: www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/workers_comp.php
Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws are different. Consult with your corporate legal counsel before implementing any cost containment programs.
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