A Supervisor’s Role in Workers’ Compensation

Supervisors play an essential role in ensuring a company’s efficiency and success. They are responsible for handling the everyday situations that help a business remain functional. Further, supervisors are also an integral part of workplace safety programs. Such programs utilize risk management techniques to keep employees safe on the job, thus reducing workers’ compensation costs.

Employers who are not incorporating their supervisors within their workers’ compensation programs are missing out on a valuable opportunity. After all, supervisors can help prevent employee injuries and subsequent workers’ compensation claims from occurring by promoting workplace safety programs, as well as support claims in action by assisting employees upon their return to work following an injury.

Supervisors spend a significant amount of time with employees. Although supervisors have their own job tasks to complete, they should always have safety on their mind. Supervisors are some of the most influential people within a company when it comes to promoting a positive safety culture.

Most employees will follow the example set by their supervisors. It is important that supervisors show their employees how important safety is by incorporating safety initiatives within their everyday routines.

Supervisors should take note of any unsafe behaviors that employees are exhibiting and use these instances as training opportunities. Supervisors can discuss these behaviors with employees right as they occur, or use them as topics for daily toolbox talks.

A positive safety culture in the workplace has been proven to reduce the risk of employee injuries. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, studies have shown that company engagement in safety programs reduces injury and illness rates significantly.

Supervisors who participate in and encourage employees to practice safe work habits will help limit instances of injury and illness, leading to a reduction in workers’ compensation claims and related costs. That being said, it is important for employers to hire supervisors who believe in and promote a safe work environment. In addition, employers should train their supervisors in safety management and make it a part of every employee’s performance evaluation.

For more ways to reduce workers’ comp claims for your business, contact Consolidated Insurance + Risk Management.