Manufacturers make things. Usually, they do so on a large scale. Therefore, their work probably requires a lot of automation, and their working environments often become very crowded. Also, the work can be dangerous, even if you make a safe or low-risk product. The process of manufacturing, itself, might harm workers. In many cases, they will qualify for workers’ compensation. What are some of the risks that your employees might face?
Understanding Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a type of supplementary income that applies to employees injured in their line of work. It can help injured employees get help with supplementary income, medical bills and related costs.
Coverage is also a benefit to the business. In most states, business owners must carry workers’ compensation insurance. It’s there for a reason. By having coverage, you won’t have to pay out-of-pocket for the losses of your employees. Furthermore, by getting coverage, you significantly reduce, if not eliminate, your risks of getting sued by the affected employee.
Workers’ Comp Risks for Manufacturers
Most people, when they think of manufacturers, think of large factories teeming with employees. But even small businesses can manufacture products in their back rooms. However, large or small, there are always employee risks present.
Consider just a few of those that might beckon inside your business:
Manufacturers use lots of different machines. If employees don’t use these correctly, they could get injured. Or, sometimes, a simple malfunction could hurt someone. In either case, the employee might qualify for workers’ compensation. To reduce these risks, you should only allow those trained on the machinery to use it. Also make sure that employees can recognize and report malfunctions quickly and easily.
One essential part of manufacturing is the use of heat. Sometimes, heat is simply generated by the friction of machinery working. In other situations, machines must use heat or flames to make the product at hand. Therefore, burn risks will exist throughout the space. Make sure that all employees know where burn risks exist, and that they wear safety gear to prevent burns.
An employee could fall and get hurt in any business. However, with the preponderance of electrical hookups and other materials that might crowd manufacturing sites, this risk might be more prevalent in certain areas. Therefore, make sure you keep walk spaces clear at all times. Walk through the space at least a few times a day, and you might never know when you could discover a fall risk that is an easy fix.
Don’t hesitate to get workers’ compensation insurance. However, do what you can in your business to keep your employees safe. Talk to an agent today for more information.