Prevent On-the-Job Accidents and Cut Costs

Accidents are part of life, and part of working, unfortunately. However, business owners and employees should realize that accidents “don’t just happen.” In truth, there is a root cause-and to prevent it from happening again, you need to determine what caused the accident in the first place, and why. By highlighting what went wrong, as well as what could fail again, one can determine where, when and what type of an accident might occur. More importantly, by identifying and eliminating root causes, we can reduce the probability of accident recurrence.

According to National Safety Council statistics, 3.7 million Americans suffered disabling injuries on the job in 2002, at a cost of $146.6 billion. The average cost for all claims combined in 2001-2002 was up 16 percent from 2000-2001.

“The average single claim cost for a National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL) Member is nearly $ 10,411.00.” - MeadowbrookÆ Insurance Group.

For business owners and their customers, accidents and insurance claims translate into higher costs. Insurance pays only the obvious costs of an accident. It’s not uncommon for businesses to spend four times what an insurance company spends to resolve a claim.

$ 10,411.00 X 4 = $41,644.00

How many complete dentures, partial dentures, crown and bridge, ceramics and orthodontics sales would it take to recoup this amount?

These hidden costs might manifest in down time, training, replacement workers, repairs, equipment replacement and overtime. An insurance company does not cover hidden costs; they are recovered from your bottom line.

We all can do something to prevent accidents on the job. By placing the responsibilities of maintaining a safe work place on managers, supervisors and employees, a business can significantly reduce the severity and frequency of injuries. Empowering employees to participate in the safety process is essential. There is a direct relationship between job safety and employee performance, production and attitude. Employees must feel they have contributed to the safety process. Don’t assume an employee knows how! Employers must educate employees regularly to follow safe work practices and procedures. Employees must understand how to recognize early signs of hazards and feel secure enough to inform management without concern that the notification will result in negative repercussions.

A good safety record defines your company’s reputation. Customers prefer to do business with responsible companies that place safety on their priority list. Fewer accidents mean that your business operation runs smoothly. In addition, your business is known among the workforce as a good place to work.

Initiating regular education and providing instruction on working safely are simple, inexpensive yet effective approaches to accident prevention. Taking time to develop a comprehensive safety program saves you money.

 For more information on how to get started, or for help with your existing safety program, log on to www.wcpolicy.com or contact Meadowbrook Insurance Group at 800-825-3760.