In the construction industry, no two days are alike. Managing multiple crews, juggling job sites, adhering to safety regulations, and keeping projects on schedule leaves little time for payroll, human resources (HR), or benefits. However, neglecting these administrative responsibilities can result in noncompliance, poor retention, safety risks, and burnout. 

That’s where a professional employer organization (PEO) comes in. By partnering with a PEO like Group Management Services (GMS), construction business owners can offload HR responsibilities, reduce risk, and build a stronger, more efficient workforce. 

Here’s how a PEO can specifically support your construction business: 

Payroll Built for Job Sites, Not Desks 

Processing payroll in construction involves more than just cutting checks. It requires tracking hours across multiple sites, managing prevailing wage requirements, calculating union dues (if applicable), and ensuring accurate job costing. 

A PEO streamlines all of this by: 

• Handling complex multi-state payroll 
• Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal wage laws 
• Integrating certified payroll reporting for government contracts 
• Simplifying job costing by categorizing labor costs per site or project 

Safer Job Sites and Lower Workers’ Comp Costs 

Construction sites have higher risks, which means higher workers’ compensation premiums. A PEO helps construction companies mitigate risk and often offers access to more affordable coverage through a shared risk pool. 

With GMS, you get: 

• Safety program development and training 
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance support 
• On-site inspections and recommendations 
• Workers’ compensation policy management and claims handling 
• Return-to-work programs to reduce lost time and costs 

We’re not just here after an accident; we help you prevent them in the first place. 

Help With Hiring and Keeping Skilled Workers 

Hiring in construction is competitive, and retaining good employees is even tougher, especially when small contractors are competing against larger firms with better benefits. 

GMS gives you the power of a big company by offering: 

• Access to Fortune 500-level benefits (health, dental, vision, 401(k), etc.) 
• Recruitment support and applicant tracking systems (ATS) 
• Streamlined onboarding and digital document management 
• Tools for tracking certifications and licenses 

A stronger benefits package makes your job postings stand out and gives your crew a reason to stay. 

HR Compliance That Keeps You Out of Trouble 

Between classifying 1099s vs. W-2s, tracking hours, and adhering to ever-changing labor laws, HR compliance in construction can be a minefield. One misstep can lead to audits, penalties, or lawsuits. 

GMS protects you by: 

• Managing employee classification and documentation 
• Ensuring wage and hour law compliance 
• Maintaining up-to-date employee handbooks and policies 
• Handling unemployment claims and The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filings 
• Providing expert HR guidance when issues arise on-site 

We help you stay compliant so you can keep your projects moving without disruption. 

More Time for Project Deadlines: Less Time on Paperwork 

You didn’t get into construction to sit behind a desk pushing paperwork. Outsourcing your HR functions to a PEO gives you time to focus on what you do best: bidding jobs, managing crews, and growing your business. 

We handle the behind-the-scenes HR tasks so you can: 

• Spend more time on-site 
• Reduce administrative burnout 
• Gain peace of mind knowing your business is protected 

Build Smarter with a Trusted PEO Partner 

The construction industry is high-stakes and fast-paced. The last thing you need is to get tripped up by an HR issue that could’ve been avoided. When you partner with GMS, you get more than just outsourced services; you get a strategic partner who understands the demands of your industry and helps you stay ahead. 

Let us take the heavy lifting off your plate. Contact us today to learn how GMS can help your construction business grow with confidence. 

Ohio’s private employers are set to receive another reduction in their workers’ compensation premiums. The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) has approved a 6% rate reduction, effective July 1, 2025, following a 7% cut implemented in 2024. This latest reduction is expected to save private employers across the state approximately $60 million in the next fiscal year. 

A Continued Trend Of Lower Costs For Employers 

The newly approved reduction marks the 16th rate cut in the past 17 years, bringing premium levels to their lowest in over 60 years. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine attributed the continued decline in costs to businesses fostering a culture of workplace safety, which has helped reduce claims and overall risk. 

BWC Administrator/CEO Stephanie McCloud emphasized that the agency’s focus remains on maintaining a strong and stable workers’ compensation system while keeping costs low for the 258,000 private and public employers participating in the program. 

What This Means For Small Businesses 

The rate reduction is particularly beneficial for small businesses, allowing them to reinvest savings into their workforce and operations. Chris Ferruso, Ohio state director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), noted that reducing costs for small employers helps them retain employees, enhance workplace safety programs, and navigate economic challenges. 

However, it’s important to remember that the 6% rate cut is an average statewide change. Individual employers’ premiums may vary based on factors such as: 

• Industry risk levels and expected future claims costs 
• A company’s recent claims history and safety record 
• Participation in BWC safety programs and incentive initiatives 

How GMS Can Help Your Business Maximize Savings 

At Group Management Services (GMS), we are dedicated to helping businesses fully leverage the benefits of the Ohio BWC rate reductions while enhancing workplace safety and ensuring compliance. Here’s how we can help: 

• Risk analysts: We provide personalized guidance to help you understand the impact of the rate reduction on your business and identify strategies to maximize your savings. 
• Workplace safety programs: Our experts help implement effective safety programs that can reduce claims and further lower premiums. 
• Claims management: By closely monitoring and managing claims, we help businesses control costs associated with workers’ compensation, minimizing the financial impact on your company. 
• Compliance support: Navigating BWC regulations can be complex; we ensure your business stays compliant with all requirements and adapts to any changes in the system. 

By partnering with GMS, employers can achieve significant cost savings, improve workplace safety, and maintain regulatory compliance. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business make the most of these savings and create a safer, more productive work environment. 

Key Takeaways

1. Next steps: The BWC Board will vote on the six percent reduction on February 28^th.
2. Effective date: If approved, the rate change takes effect on July 1, 2025.
3. Potential savings: Ohio private employers would pay $60 million less in total premiums over the next fiscal year.

Ohio’s private employers may soon see yet another reduction in their workers’ compensation premiums. On January 24, 2025, the Ohio BWC announced a proposal for a six percent rate cut, a move that could save employers across the state a collective $60 million starting in July of this year.

Continuing A Trend Of Rate Decreases

If approved at the BWC Board of Directors’ meeting on February 28^th, this would be:

• The sixth rate reduction since Governor Mike DeWine took office in 2019.
• The 16^th decrease in the past 17 years, going back to 2008.

According to the BWC, the average premium levels for both private and public employers (totaling about 257,000 across Ohio) now stand at their lowest in 60 years.

Why The Proposed Rate Cut?

BWC Administrator/CEO Stephanie McCloud emphasizes that the continued trend toward lower rates reflects the commitment of Ohio’s workforce to promoting safety on the job. In addition, program participation, fewer claims, and a strong focus on injury prevention have helped keep costs in check.

Impact On Employers

This six percent rate decrease is an average statewide premium reduction. Actual savings for individual employers will vary based on:

• Industry risk and expected future claims costs
• Recent claims history
• Participation in various BWC safety and discount programs

Nonetheless, Ohio businesses, particularly small and midsize businesses (SMBs), stand to benefit significantly if the BWC Board gives final approval.

Looking Ahead

With the BWC’s track record of approving proposed cuts, many anticipate a favorable outcome on February 28^th. Ohio Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Steve Stivers has already expressed strong support, noting that this decision would help make Ohio “the best place in the nation for business.”

How GMS Can Help

If you’re looking to take full advantage of potential premium savings or want to ensure your workplace safety measures and BWC program participation are optimized, Group Management Services (GMS) can help. Our experts will work alongside your organization to:

• Review your current workers’ compensation premiums and safety program participation.
• Provide alternative self-insured workers’ compensation where GMS covers all medical and compensation costs if the claim has been verified.
• Offer risk management guidance to keep your team safe and your premium costs as low as possible.

For more information on how this rate reduction could affect your organization, or to explore additional ways to reduce overhead costs and streamline your HR, contact us today. We’re here to help you stay informed, compliant, and prepared for changes as they develop.

Stay calm, stay compliant, and stay ready: Your step-by-step guide to handling OSHA inspections with confidence. 

Don’t panic if you find an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspector at your door. While unannounced inspections can be stressful, you’re not powerless. You’ve learned what triggers an inspection and how to prepare beforehand in the first two parts of this series. Now, we’ll focus on how to navigate the inspection process itself. By following the right steps, you can maintain a professional and compliant environment that keeps your employees and business protected. 

Know Your Rights Before The Inspection Begins 

When an OSHA compliance officer arrives, it’s important to know what you can and can’t do. For instance, you have the right to request the officer’s credentials, ask why they’re at your workplace, and determine the scope of the inspection. If the inspection results from an employee complaint, you can ask to see a copy of that complaint. Having a solid grasp of your rights helps ensure a fair and focused review of your operations. 

Be Polite And Professional 

First impressions matter. Greet the OSHA officer politely and guide them to a comfortable waiting area while you notify your designated representative, whether it’s your facility manager, HR director, or safety officer, of their arrival. Don’t keep the inspector waiting unnecessarily. A courteous, respectful demeanor can set a constructive tone for the entire visit. 

Control The Flow Of Information 

While you should always answer questions truthfully, there’s no need to volunteer extra details. Respond directly to what the inspector asks without straying into unrelated territory. If the inspector requests specific documents (such as hazard communication programs, training logs, or incident reports), provide them promptly but do not overshare. Keep in mind that clarity and honesty go a long way, but unnecessary details can create confusion or additional scrutiny. 

Limit The Scope Of The Inspection 

You’re not required to give the inspector free rein of your entire facility. By designating a careful route and shutting down irrelevant operations, you can help focus the inspection on the area of concern. This approach keeps the inspector’s attention on key points and helps prevent them from wandering into unrelated areas where they might identify new issues. Just remember to remain cooperative and professional. 

Be Prepared To Address Safety Hazards Immediately 

If the inspector points out an obvious, easily correctable hazard during the walkaround, like a missing guardrail or improperly stored chemicals, fix it right away. Prompt remediation shows good faith and your commitment to safety and compliance. More complex issues may require additional time, but addressing simple fixes on the spot demonstrates responsiveness and can help mitigate potential penalties. 

Accompany The Inspector Every Step Of The Way 

Ensure that your designated representative, such as a supervisor or a Safety Manager, stays with the inspector during the walkaround. Take notes, snap your own photos, and record any measurements so you have the same records the inspector does. If employees are interviewed, managerial staff usually have the right to have an attorney present during managerial interviews. For non-managerial employees, however, the inspector may conduct interviews privately. 

Stay Calm During The Closing Conference 

At the end of the inspection, the OSHA officer will hold a closing conference to discuss any potential violations or concerns. This isn’t the time to argue aggressively or admit fault; remain calm, polite, and take notes. You’ll have opportunities later to contest citations if you believe they’re unjustified. If a simple correction can be made on the spot, do it. If not, outline a plan to address the issue thoroughly once you’ve had time to review all the details. 

Follow Up After The Inspection

Once the inspector leaves, meet with your team to debrief. Talk to any employees who were interviewed and review the inspector’s areas of focus. Use these insights to improve your safety culture, address any identified hazards, and review any compliance weaknesses. If OSHA issues citations, you have the right to contest them. Consider consulting with an attorney if you need help navigating the appeals process. 

How GMS Can Help During And After An OSHA Inspection

Navigating an OSHA inspection is easier when you have the right support. At Group Management Services (GMS), we have experienced HR professionals and compliance experts who can help your business take a proactive, organized approach: 

• OSHA inspection and citation assistance: We support clients through OSHA investigations and the management/mitigation of OSHA citations. 

• Policy and procedure guidance: We’ll ensure you have clear, accessible safety policies in place before inspectors arrive. 

• Training and documentation support: GMS can help you maintain up-to-date safety training records, incident logs, and hazard assessments, making it easier to respond quickly and accurately to requests for documentation. 

By partnering with GMS, you gain a knowledgeable ally who can help streamline your HR functions and create a safer, more compliant work environment. We handle HR and risk management, so you confidently run your business, even when OSHA comes knocking on your door. 

Ready to make OSHA inspections less daunting? Contact GMS today to learn how our comprehensive services can support your compliance efforts and help ensure smooth inspections. 

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take action now to ensure your workplace is prepared for OSHA inspections before they arrive.

Workplace safety isn’t something that should be addressed only when an inspection is at your door. Being proactive is key to preventing violations and ensuring the well-being of your employees. In the first part of this series, we explored what triggers Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspections. Now, we’ll shift our focus to practical steps you can take to prepare well ahead of time, so that when an inspection occurs, you’re ready to face it with confidence rather than concern.

Why Preparation Matters

Just as you’d service machinery before it breaks down, it’s vital to address safety and compliance before OSHA comes knocking. Proactive preparation can help:

• Prevent financial setbacks: Early improvements may cost less than hefty fines and emergency fixes.
• Ensure employee well-being: A safer environment reduces the likelihood of serious injuries or fatalities.
• Enhance workplace culture: A proactive approach builds trust and shows employees that their safety matters.

Build A Safety-First Culture

A positive safety culture is the foundation of any successful preparation plan. When everyone from top management to entry-level employees understands their role in maintaining a safe environment, compliance becomes second nature. Encourage open dialogue about safety issues, hold regular ‘toolbox talks’, and celebrate examples of conscientious behavior. The goal? To make safety part of your company’s identity, not just a line item on a checklist.

Conduct Thorough Safety Audits

If you’ve never conducted a comprehensive safety audit, now is the time. Systematically review your facilities, equipment, and workflows to identify any hazards or compliance gaps. Pay special attention to areas that frequently trigger inspection, like fall protection, machine guarding, and hazardous material handling. Consider bringing in third-party experts if necessary. These professionals can spot overlooked risks, offer practical solutions, and help ensure you meet OSHA standards.

Develop Clear Policies And Procedures

If your employees don’t know what’s expected of them, they’re more likely to take shortcuts or unknowingly violate safety standards. To avoid this, make sure to:

• Draft and update safety policies: Keep documentation in plain language so everyone understands it.
• Post guidelines prominently: Place safety reminders and protocols in high-visibility areas, such as break rooms and job sites.
• Establish reporting channels: Make it easy for employees to report hazards or concerns without fear of backlash.

By putting strong policies in place, you create a roadmap that guides everyone toward safer work habits and ensures that no one’s left guessing what the rules are.

Prioritize Training And Communication

Even the best policies won’t help if employees aren’t aware of them or don’t know how to apply them in real-world scenarios. To ensure that employees are aware of your company’s safety protocols, consider utilizing:

• Onboarding sessions: Introduce new hires to your safety culture and outline their responsibilities from the start.
• Hands-on workshops: Practical training helps employees recognize hazards and use protective equipment correctly.
• Refreshers and updates: Industries evolve, and so do regulations. Stay compliant by hosting regular retraining sessions to align with evolving regulations.

Regular communication keeps safety top-of-mind. Consider monthly newsletters, safety bulletins, or short videos highlighting new techniques or reminders. The more accessible and engaging your training materials, the better your employees will retain and apply them.

Keep Meticulous Records

From injury logs to training certifications, can make or break your compliance efforts. If an inspector arrives, well-organized records show that you’ve been diligent. These records include:

• Accident and incident reports: Promptly record any workplace injuries, near-misses, or other safety-related events.
• Training verification: Maintain a record of all completed training sessions, who attended, and when.
• Equipment maintenance logs: Show that machinery and safety equipment are regularly inspected and maintained.
• Hazard assessments: Keep a written record of identified risks and the steps taken to address them.

Good recordkeeping not only helps you during an inspection; it also supports continuous improvement. By reviewing past incidents and training outcomes, you can identify trends, refine your policies, and make targeted changes that reinforce workplace safety over time.

Conduct Mock Inspections

Don’t wait until an OSHA representative is actually on-site to find out where you’re falling short. Conducting mock inspections, either internally or with outside consultants, helps you see your operation through the eyes of an inspector. Walk through your facility, check for compliance with known OSHA standards, and evaluate how well employees follow safety protocols. Mock inspections can:

• Highlight weaknesses: Identify issues before they escalate into violations.
• Improve response time: Familiarize your team with what to expect, so they remain calm and cooperative during a real inspection.
• Build confidence: By knowing you’ve addressed potential pitfalls, you can approach a real inspection with assurance.

Partnering With GMS For A Proactive Approach

Staying ahead of OSHA compliance can feel overwhelming when you’re already managing day-to-day operations. That’s where Group Management Services (GMS) can step in. Our experts can help your business:

• Conduct audits and gap analyses: We’ll identify areas where you may be at risk before an inspector does.
• Refine training programs: Gain access to resources that keep your team informed and prepared.
• Support recordkeeping and documentation: We’ll help ensure your paperwork is in order and easy to reference.

By partnering with GMS, you’re not just preparing for an inspection, you’re cultivating a robust, ongoing approach to safety. This proactive stance empowers your workforce, strengthens your compliance efforts, and sets you and your business up for long-term success.

Contact GMS today to learn more about how we can support you in preparing for and preventing OSHA inspections. Click here to continue reading how to handle OSHA when they finally come to inspect your workplace.

Workplace safety is not something that businesses can afford to cut corners on, and that isn’t a figure of speech. A single penalty from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) can cost your company anywhere between $16,131 and $161,323. The federal organization even hosts a website where you can see every case with initial penalties of $40,000 and higher, and the list of companies affected across all 50 states is extensive.

Understanding what causes an OSHA inspection is crucial to helping your company avoid devastating financial setbacks. This blog marks the first in a three-part series on OSHA inspections. In this segment, we’ll explore the common events and conditions that can prompt an inspection and why being informed is the first step toward maintaining compliance.

Why OSHA Conducts Inspections

In 1970, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) of 1970 was enacted to ensure employers provide safe and healthy working conditions for their employees. Their purpose is to enforce standards and prevent recognized hazards in the workplace. Normally, OSHA demonstrates this by conducting random inspections in the search for violations. However, that’s not always the case. Many of these inspections can be triggered by specific events, conditions, or reports. By understanding these triggers, employers can identify potential risks and act before an inspector arrives.

Key Triggers For OSHA Inspections

1. Imminent danger situations

Workplace hazards that pose an immediate risk of death or severe physical harm are a top priority for OSHA. Examples include unguarded machinery, chemical spills, or significant fall risks. If OSHA suspects imminent danger, either through tips or observations, an inspection may occur within 24 hours.

2. Severe injuries or fatalities

Under OSHA regulations, employers must report workplace fatalities within eight hours and severe injuries (hospitalizations, amputations, or eye loss) within 24 hours. These reports often trigger inspections to determine the root cause and assess compliance with safety standards.

3. Employee complaints

Employees can file anonymous complaints if they believe their workplace has serious safety violations. OSHA gives significant weight to these complaints, especially if they detail hazards that could result in severe injury or death.

4. Referrals

Referrals often originate from other government agencies, law enforcement, or even media reports. For example, Straus Feeds LLC was investigated after OSHA received reports of unsafe working conditions. After the inspection, the company was cited for 24 violations, leading to penalties totaling $161,332.

5. Programmed inspections

Certain industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and health care, are deemed high-risk by OSHA. These sectors often face programmed inspections due to their higher injury and illness rates.

6. Follow-up inspections

If your company was cited during a prior inspection, OSHA may conduct a follow-up to ensure that violations have been corrected. Failure to address citations can result in heightened scrutiny and increased penalties.

Staying Ahead Of OSHA Inspections

OSHA averages over 32,000 inspections a year and your business could be one of them. While OSHA inspections can’t always be avoided, understanding what causes them gives organizations the opportunity to proactively address risks. Continue reading here to learn more about the actionable steps you can take to prepare ahead of time. 

Partnering With GMS

Navigating OSHA compliance and inspections doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Group Management Services (GMS) offers tailored solutions to help your business stay compliant, reduce risks, and cultivate a safe culture. Whether it’s safety training, recordkeeping, or audits, our experts are here to help you safeguard your workplace and stay prepared for any OSHA visit.

Contact GMS today to learn how we can help your organization succeed in workplace safety and compliance.