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  • Recent events have cast a glaring spotlight on the consequences of overlooking workplace safety. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited a Georgia-based chemical manufacturer, Chemical Products Corp., following a tragic incident that unfortunately took the life of an employee who had only been on the job for two months.

    The incident, involving fatal chemical and thermal burns from hot sludge after the opening of an air intake valve, not only resulted in the loss of a valued team member but also caused severe injuries to another worker. Shockingly, this was not an isolated case, as another employee suffered chemical burns just 25 days later.

    The Cost Of Ignoring Safety Measures

    OSHA’s citation outlined five serious violations against Chemical Products Corp., highlighting the company’s failure to implement essential safety precautions designed to shield workers from such hazards. The proposed penalties of $55,403 shed light on the real cost of neglecting safety protocols.

    Protecting Your Employees Is Non-Negotiable

    As a business owner, the safety and well-being of your team should be non-negotiable. These incidents are a stark reminder of the potential consequences of overlooking safety measures. Beyond the ethical imperative, investing in workplace safety procedures is an investment in the very foundation of your business – your employees.

    The Crucial Role Of Comprehensive Safety Procedures

    Establishing and strictly adhering to comprehensive safety procedures isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a fundamental necessity. Proper training, hazard assessments, and the implementation of safety protocols are imperative to prevent tragic incidents such as those witnessed at Chemical Products Corp.

    Proactive Steps For A Secure Workplace

    As a responsible business owner, take proactive steps to ensure a secure workplace. Regular safety audits, employee training sessions, and a culture prioritizing safety can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

    Avoiding Tragedy

    In the wake of this incident, the need for comprehensive workplace safety measures couldn’t be more evident. Small business owners often juggle multiple responsibilities, and ensuring stringent safety protocols might seem daunting. However, when you partner with a professional employer organization (PEO), you gain access to expertise, resources, and guidance to navigate the intricate landscape of workplace safety. PEOs like GMS offer tailored solutions, from comprehensive safety training to proactive risk assessments, all aimed at fortifying your business against potential hazards. They provide the support needed to create a culture of safety, minimizing risks and ensuring that tragic incidents like the one at Chemical Products Corp. never occur.

    GMS’ safety team can help business owners take a proactive approach to workplace safety through various services. These strategies include the following:

    • Jobsite inspections
    • Accident and injury investigations
    • Training
    • Job hazard analysis (JHA) and standard operating procedures (SOP)
    • OSHA inspection and citation assistance 
    • Onsite consulting

    Don’t wait for a crisis to prioritize safety – partner with GMS today to safeguard your business and employees. Contact us today to learn more. 

  • Small business owners, it’s time to take note. For the 13th consecutive year, lack of fall protection has remained at the top of the list of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) most frequently cited workplace safety violations. Workplace safety is not only a moral obligation but also a legal requirement that can have a profound impact on your business. This blog dives into OSHA’s top 10 safety violations for fiscal year 2023 and provides essential insights for small business owners to keep their workplaces safe and avoid costly penalties.

    General Fall Protection (7,271 Violations)

    Fall protection has consistently ranked as the number one violation for over a decade. This includes ensuring employees are properly equipped with fall protection gear when working at heights. Small businesses, particularly those in the construction or maintenance industries, must prioritize training and equipment to prevent falls and protect their workers.

    Hazard Communication (3,213 Violations)

    Hazard communication violations involve failing to properly label and communicate chemical hazards in the workplace. Small business owners must establish clear protocols for handling, storing, and labeling hazardous materials to protect their employees from potentially dangerous exposures.

    Ladders (2,978 Violations)

    Ladder safety to avoid accidents is essential. Ensure your employees receive training on ladder safety, regularly inspect and maintain your ladders, and provide the appropriate type and size of ladder for the task at hand.

    Scaffolding (2,859 Violations)

    Scaffolding is a common component of many construction projects. Small businesses involved in construction need to maintain, inspect, and assemble scaffolding according to OSHA’s standards to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety.

    Powered Industrial Trucks (2,560 Violations)

    Proper training and maintenance are key if your business uses forklifts or other industrial trucks. Small business owners must ensure their operators are trained and certified, and that equipment is maintained to avoid accidents.

    Lockout/Tagout (2,554 Violations)

    Lockout/tagout procedures are crucial for protecting employees during equipment maintenance and repair. Small businesses must have clear lockout/tagout protocols to prevent accidental machine starts.

    Respiratory Protection (2,481 Violations)

    Protecting employees from airborne hazards is paramount. Small business owners should provide appropriate respiratory protection, conduct fit testing, and implement effective safety measures to prevent respiratory-related illnesses and injuries.

    Fall Protection Training Requirements (2,112 Violations)

    In addition to providing fall protection equipment, small business owners must ensure their employees receive proper training in using this equipment. Training can save lives and prevent costly violations.

    Personal Protective And Lifesaving Equipment: Eye And Face Protection (2,074 Violations)

    Protecting workers’ eyes and faces is a top priority. Proper eye and face protection, such as goggles or face shields, should be provided and worn in areas with potential hazards.

    Machine Guarding (1,644 Violations)

    Machine guarding violations occur when equipment is not properly protected. Small businesses must regularly inspect and maintain their machinery to prevent accidents, injuries, and OSHA violations.

    Protect Your Business – Partner With A PEO

    As a small business owner, understanding OSHA’s top 10 safety violations for 2023 is essential for the well-being of your employees and the success of your business. Failing to address these violations jeopardizes your workforce’s safety and can result in costly penalties and legal issues. Fortunately, you could partner with GMS, a professional employer organization (PEO), to navigate this complex aspect of your business. We provide business owners with experienced safety experts who can help you proactively protect your business and employees.

    GMS’ safety team has the knowledge and resources to assess your workplace, implement safety measures, and ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, all before OSHA comes knocking on your door. By partnering with GMS, you can confidently navigate the complex world of workplace safety and focus on growing your business while leaving safety concerns in capable hands. Contact our team of experts today!

  • In a move that has been long-awaited by workers and advocates across New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has taken a decisive step to improve the lives of injured workers. She signed into law a bill that will not only increase the minimum weekly workers’ compensation benefit but also revolutionize the way these benefits are calculated, ensuring a fairer and more just system.

    A Boost In Workers’ Compensation Benefits

    The heart of this groundbreaking reform is the significant increase in the minimum weekly permanent and temporary partial disability benefits. As it stands, the minimum weekly benefit has remained stagnant since May 2013 at $150. However, with the signing of S1161/A2034, these benefits will see a remarkable transformation. In 2024, the minimum weekly benefit will rise to $275, providing immediate relief to workers who have long felt the weight of inadequate compensation.

    But that’s not all; the bill doesn’t stop at a one-time increase. In 2025, it will continue its upward trajectory, reaching $325 per week. These changes are not just about numbers; they’re about improving the lives of workers who depend on these benefits to make ends meet when faced with an injury.

    A Fairer And More Equitable Future

    The most transformative aspect of this reform is the indexing of minimum weekly benefits to the state’s average weekly wage, ensuring fair compensation for all injured workers. Beginning in 2026, these benefits will be linked directly to the state’s average weekly wage, the same metric used to adjust the maximum benefit.

    Under this new system, the minimum weekly benefit will be set at one-fifth of the average wage. This means that if an injured worker’s earnings fall below the threshold, they will receive full wages as compensation for their covered injury. This change is a game-changer for those who, in the past, were left with inadequate compensation due to lower incomes.

    This new law is a testament to the power of advocacy and the determination to create a more equitable society. It acknowledges the fundamental principle that every worker, regardless of their income, deserves fair compensation when faced with a work-related injury. Governor Hochul’s signature on this bill marks a historic moment for New York and a brighter future for its injured workers.

    Navigate The Future Of New York Labor Laws With GMS

    In light of these progressive changes in workers’ compensation benefits, the landscape of employment in New York is evolving rapidly. For businesses, this presents an excellent opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to their employees’ well-being while also staying compliant with the latest regulations. Partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO) like GMS is the key to confidently navigating these changes.

    PEOs offer guidance on navigating the intricacies of these new laws and provide tailored solutions to ensure your business is fully compliant. Partnering with us allows you to focus on what you do best – growing your business – while we handle the complexities of compliance, ultimately fostering a more productive, happier, and secure work environment for your employees. When you partner with us, we’ll lead the way by helping you embrace the future of workplace fairness. Contact us to learn more.

  • In a stride towards enhancing workplace safety and ensuring regulatory compliance, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has proposed a groundbreaking proposed rule. This rule redefines the individuals authorized to accompany Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance officers during workplace inspections. This initiative aims to usher in a new era of inclusivity and accountability in maintaining workplace safety by broadening the scope of representation.

    Expanding Representation

    Released on August 29th, 2023, the proposed rule signifies a transformative shift in the landscape of workplace inspections. At its heart, the rule empowers employees to authorize an employee or a non-employee third party to accompany OSHA compliance officers during inspections. It’s important to note the third party’s endorsement does not necessitate employer approval; it’s solely subject to the inspector’s consent. The rule is meant to enhance the efficacy and comprehensiveness of inspections, thereby fostering safer and more informed working environments.

    Embracing Diverse Expertise

    One of the features of the proposed rule is its departure from the traditional confines of who can be designated as a third-party representative. The law highlights that these representatives cannot be restricted to industrial hygienists or safety engineers. The driving force behind their inclusion is the unique expertise they bring, be it specialized skills, profound knowledge, or diverse experiences that can substantially enrich the compliance officer’s inspection process. This rule acknowledges that individuals with insights into specific hazards, workplace conditions, or even fluency in different languages can bridge communication gaps between OSHA representatives and workers.

    Addressing Concerns From Employers

    Employers have raised valid concerns about union representatives potentially exploiting safety inspections for their agendas. The potential presence of a wide array of representatives, including personal injury lawyers, experts, lobbyists, and legal advocates for public interest groups, has ignited discussions around conflicts of interest groups and the protection of sensitive information such as trade secrets. A trade secret is an intellectual property with inherent economic value because it’s not generally known or readily ascertainable by others, and the owner takes reasonable measures to keep it secret.

    While these concerns are valid, the proposed rule incorporates provisions that empower OSHA inspectors to prevent individuals from participating in inspections if their actions disrupt the process or jeopardize an employer’s ability to safeguard trade secrets and proprietary information.

    Leveraging PEOs For Seamless Implementation 

    As the proposed rule for expanded representation during OSHA inspections takes center stage, employers face opportunities and challenges in upholding workplace safety. However, partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO) can be your saving grace. PEOs such as Group Management Services (GMS) specialize in managing various HR functions, including compliance and safety, allowing businesses to navigate regulatory changes more effectively.

    With our expertise, we help employers understand the intricacies of the proposed rule, select appropriate third-party representatives, and ensure a seamless integration of these changes into their safety protocols. By partnering with us, employers can balance representation and safety, fostering a secure work environment that aligns with regulatory mandates and their employees’ well-being. As the discussion of this ruling continues, GMS is ready to support businesses in championing workplace safety while navigating the evolving landscape of employee representation. Get a quote today!

  • As scorching temperatures sweep across the United States, breaking records and posing serious threats to workers, President Joe Biden has taken a momentous step to safeguard their well-being. With the heat wave expected to intensify in central and southeastern regions, the risk to workers has never been higher. In response to this alarming situation, President Biden has directed the Department of Labor (DOL) to issue an unprecedented hazard alert for heat, marking the first of its kind in history. This landmark decision underscores the administration’s commitment to worker safety and sets the stage for crucial changes in heat-related protections under federal law.

    The Heat Wave’s Impact On Workers

    With triple-digit temperatures becoming the norm in various parts of the country, workers’ lives are being put at risk. Outdoor laborers, especially those in the construction and agriculture sectors, face extreme challenges due to prolonged exposure to the blistering heat. Heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps become all too common during such weather conditions. The situation is further exacerbated for workers in central and southeastern regions, where the heat wave shows no signs of giving up.

    Phoenix baked under its 27th consecutive day of record-breaking heat with temperatures of 110 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. In Texas, 13 deaths and hundreds of injuries and emergency room admissions have been attributed to scorching heat waves. Heat mitigation has been a bargaining issue for UPS drivers who threatened to strike; union leaders and UPS announced a tentative deal to equip the trucks with air conditioning, heat shields, and additional fans.

    Biden’s Call For Action

    Recognizing the severity of the heat wave’s impact on workers, President Biden’s proactive approach in requesting the DOL to issue a hazard alert for heat is both timely and commendable. This alert reminds employers of their obligation to ensure a safe working environment for their employees during hazardous heat conditions. By spotlighting this issue, the administration aims to raise awareness about the dangers of extreme heat exposure and create a sense of urgency to implement necessary precautions.

    Enhanced Worker Protections

    The DOL’s hazard alert is not merely symbolic; it comes with tangible actions to mitigate risks and preserve worker health. Employers will receive vital information on the measures they can and should take to protect their workforce during heat waves. This includes guidelines on providing adequate shade, rest breaks, and access to hydration and training workers and supervisors to recognize and respond to early signs of heat-related illnesses.

    Moreover, the DOL’s decision to ramp up enforcement of heat-safety violations demonstrates the seriousness with which the administration views this matter. Holding employers accountable for neglecting their workers’ safety during extreme heat is crucial to creating a culture of adherence to heat-safety regulations.

    A National Standard For Workplace Heat Safety

    In addition to the hazard alert, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is actively working towards developing a comprehensive national standard for workplace heat-safety rules. This ambitious undertaking aims to establish uniform guidelines and protocols for all industries and regions. A national standard will streamline safety procedures and ensure consistent and effective protection for workers, regardless of their location or occupation.

    How PEOs Build Stronger Heat Safety Protections For Businesses And Workers

    In the face of escalating heat waves and their potential threats to workers’ safety, businesses have a vital role to play in safeguarding their employees. Partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO) can be a game-changer for businesses navigating these challenging times. A PEO like GMS brings expertise in human resources, risk management, and workplace safety, enabling businesses to develop comprehensive heat mitigation strategies. From providing guidance on implementing heat safety protocols to ensuring compliance with federal regulations, a PEO empowers businesses to prioritize the well-being of their workforce. By collaborating with GMS, businesses can proactively equip their workers with the necessary resources and support, fortifying them against the scorching heat waves and creating a safer, more resilient work environment for all. Contact us today to ensure a safe work environment for your workers.

  • Workplace injuries can have a significant impact on employees and businesses, leading to lost workdays, reduced productivity, and soaring medical expenses. As a business owner, it’s crucial to recognize and address the unique challenges different age groups face in the workplace. Recent data highlights a concerning trend – older and newer/less experienced workers have higher injury rates.

    Research from Travelers insurance company sheds light on the need for heightened attention toward new and older workers regarding workplace injuries. Continue reading to explore strategies to reduce accidents and foster a safer working environment for all employees.

    The First-Year On The Job Challenge

    According to Travelers’ review of over 1.2 million workers’ compensation claims, 34% of workplace injuries occur during an employee’s first year on the job. These injuries result in nearly 7 million missed workdays, highlighting the need for a strong focus on safety training and awareness for new workers. The primary reason behind this trend is that fresh recruits often lack the same level of experience and familiarity with workplace hazards as their more seasoned colleagues.

    To combat this issue, business owners must prioritize comprehensive onboarding and training programs for new employees. Investing in well-structured orientation sessions and safety protocols can equip new workers with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate potential hazards safely. In addition, mentoring programs that pair new hires with experienced colleagues can provide an invaluable resource for addressing questions and concerns as they arise.

    The Aging Workforce Challenge

    While new workers require special attention, the study also revealed that the most expensive workers’ compensation claims come from employees aged 60 and older. These claims were about 140% more costly than those from workers aged 18 to 24. Although older workers may experience fewer injuries overall, the impact of their injuries is significantly higher due to longer recovery times and higher medical expenses.

    As the workforce becomes increasingly multi-generational, business owners need to implement strategies that cater to the unique needs of older employees. Proactive measures such as workplace ergonomics assessments, age-sensitive training programs, and flexible work arrangements can help mitigate the risk of injuries for older workers. Promoting a culture of open communication encourages employees of all ages to report potential hazards and seek necessary support, fostering a safer work environment for everyone.

    Embracing A Comprehensive Safety Culture

    To effectively address the challenges posed by workplace injuries, business owners must work hand in hand with management and employees to cultivate a comprehensive safety culture. The following are essential steps to consider:

    • Training and education: Provide ongoing safety training tailored to the diverse needs of different age groups. Engaging workshops, informative materials, and online resources can reinforce safety practices and keep employees informed about potential risks.
    • Hazard identification and mitigation: Regularly assess the workplace for potential hazards and take prompt action to address them. Encourage employees to participate in safety inspections and hazard reporting, empowering them to take ownership of their workplace safety.
    • Mentoring and knowledge sharing: Implement mentorship programs that connect experienced employees with newer ones. Encourage knowledge sharing and create a supportive environment where questions and concerns are welcomed and addressed promptly.
    • Health and wellness initiatives: Support employee well-being by offering health and wellness programs that promote physical and mental well-being. A healthy workforce is more likely to be alert, focused, and able to prevent accidents.
    • Emphasize safety leadership: Effective safety initiatives begin with strong leadership. Encourage supervisors and managers to lead by example and prioritize safety in decision-making.

    Empowering Safety And Compliance: Unleashing The PEO Advantage

    In the quest for a secure and compliant work environment that benefits all workers, small business owners have a powerful ally in professional employer organizations (PEOs). If you’re unfamiliar with what a PEO is, here’s a quick rundown.

    A PEO is a strategic partner that collaborates with small businesses to manage critical HR functions, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on their core competencies and growth. Through a co-employment arrangement, the PEO takes on responsibilities such as:

    • Payroll processing
    • Benefits administration 
    • Tax filings
    • Workers’ compensation

    As the business owner, you retain control over the day-to-day operations and decision-making. When you team up with a PEO like GMS, you gain access to comprehensive HR solutions, expert guidance, and invaluable resources, all tailored to promote workplace safety and regulatory adherence. We bring our expertise in developing personalized training programs, conducting meticulous risk assessments, and navigating the intricate maze of employment regulations. Embracing a partnership with a PEO empowers small businesses to effectively address the unique challenges posed by new and older workers, nurturing a multi-generational workforce that thrives in a secure and vibrant workplace.

    Let’s foster an environment where employees can flourish, unburdened by unnecessary risks, and assured of their well-being at the core of the organization’s prosperity. Get a quote from us today!

  • Safety in the workplace is essential for employers and employees. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), in response to concerning data on workplace accidents and injuries, has recently launched a proactive national emphasis program to prevent hazards in warehouses, processing facilities, distribution centers, and other “high-risk retail” establishments. This three-year initiative addresses the growing concerns surrounding worker safety in these industries, leading to a safer and more secure working environment for everyone involved.

    The Growing Need For Safety Measures

    A troubling increase in workplace accidents has accompanied the rapid growth of warehousing and distribution centers in recent years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicates that injury and illness rates in these establishments surpass the private industry’s average and, in some sectors, are more than twice as high. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, OSHA has taken action to safeguard the well-being of workers and mitigate the risks they face daily.

    Comprehensive Safety Inspections

    As part of this three-year emphasis program, OSHA will conduct comprehensive safety inspections focusing on critical hazards commonly occurring in high-risk retail establishments. Some of the key areas of scrutiny will include:

    • Powered industrial vehicle operations: OSHA aims to assess and improve safety protocols related to the operation and use of powered industrial vehicles, such as forklifts and pallet jacks. Adequate training, maintenance, and safety procedures will be at the forefront of these inspections.
    • Material handling and storage: Warehouses and distribution centers often deal with heavy loads and potentially hazardous materials. OSHA will thoroughly evaluate the storage practices, equipment, and procedures to ensure the safe handling of materials.
    • Walking and working surfaces: Slips, trips, and falls are common accidents in high-risk retail establishments. OSHA will examine walking and working surfaces, focusing on potential hazards and the implementation of preventive measures.
    • Means of egress and fire protection: In the event of an emergency, easy and safe evacuation is crucial. OSHA will inspect exit routes and fire protection systems to guarantee that employees can quickly exit the premises in case of a fire or other hazards.
    • Storage and loading areas: With a particular focus on retail establishments with high injury rates, OSHA will pay close attention to storage and loading areas to identify potential dangers and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

    Addressing Health Hazards

    OSHA’s emphasis program goes beyond traditional safety hazards. The initiative will also assess heat and ergonomic hazards that employees may face in these industries. The aim is to identify and mitigate factors that could negatively impact workers’ health and well-being during the course of their duties. If necessary, health inspections may also be conducted to ensure compliance with health standards and protect workers from potential long-term health risks.

    Incorporating State Plans

    In a significant move, OSHA has mandated that state plans adopt this emphasis program or establish an alternative program that is at least as effective as the federal model. This ensures uniformity in safety regulations across the nation and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing workplace safety at all levels of governance.

    Create A Safer Workplace By Partnering With A PEO

    To create a safer and more secure working environment, businesses operating in high-risk retail establishments can turn to a powerful ally – a professional employer organization (PEO) such as GMS. GMS can play a pivotal role in bolstering workplace safety by providing expert guidance, comprehensive safety training programs, and tailored safety management solutions. Through a PEO partnership, businesses can gain access to a team of HR and safety professionals who specialize in OSHA compliance and best practices, ensuring that safety protocols are diligently followed. By entrusting their workforce’s well-being to a reputable PEO, businesses can focus on their core operations, confident that they have a dedicated partner to foster a culture of safety and prioritize the health of their employees. With OSHA’s national emphasis program and the expertise of GMS, businesses can build a secure and thriving workplace where the safety of every worker remains the utmost priority. Contact our safety experts today!

  • JZ Exteriors and Repairs LLC, a roofing contractor in Illinois, recently received citations from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The company received the citation because it failed to protect its workers from falling hazards. In addition to this citation, the company already had existing unpaid penalties of $31,163 for workplace safety violations.

    Diving Deeper Into The Citations

    OSHA inspectors identified the following issues:

    Lack of fall protection and training

    During their inspection, OSHA inspectors observed six roofers removing asphalt shingles from a commercial building at heights of up to 12 feet without any fall protection measures in place. The company failed to provide proper training in using fall protection equipment.

    Absence of accident prevention programs 

    JZ Exteriors and Repairs LLC did not have an accident prevention program in place, which is essential for ensuring workplace safety.

    Inadequate hazard inspections

    The company lacked a competent individual responsible for inspecting worksites for potential hazards, which is crucial for identifying and addressing safety risks. 

    In addition to these issues, the company also failed to use ladders properly, de-energize circuits, thereby exposing workers to electrical hazards, and did not have a fire extinguisher readily available for emergencies. 

    As a result of these violations, OSHA cited JZ Exteriors and Repairs LLC for five repeats, four serious, and one other-than-serious violation. The total penalties imposed amounted to $66,711. The company now has 15 business days to take the following actions:

    • Comply with the citations and penalties 
    • Request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director to discuss the findings
    • Contest the finding before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission 

    A Business Owner’s Worst Nightmare 

    Experiencing citations and hefty penalties from OSHA can be a business owner’s worst nightmare. The consequences not only include financial burdens but also reputational damage and potential harm to workers. However, there is a solution that can help prevent such nightmares from occurring within your business – partnering with a professional employer organization (PEO). A PEO like GMS specializes in managing various aspects of HR, including workplace safety compliance. You can ensure that you have a robust safety program in place, proper training for employees, and regular hazard inspections. 

    In addition, our safety experts provide guidance on OSHA regulations, helping business owners stay ahead of potential violations and maintain a safe working environment. Don’t let your business face the same fate as JZ Exteriors and Repairs LLC. Consider the proactive approach of partnering with GMS to protect your workers and your business from potential nightmares. Contact us today to learn more. 

  • New York lawmakers have introduced a new bill, S.B. 5081, to strengthen safety measures for warehouse workers. This bill builds upon the existing Warehouse Worker Protection Act (S.B. 8922) that was passed in December 2022. The new bill requires companies with workers engaged in manual materials handling tasks to develop an injury reduction plan to minimize the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders such as tendonitis, arthritis, sprains, and strains.

    This plan includes hiring a certified ergonomist to evaluate the worksite and gather input from workers. An ergonomist is a professional who studies, designs, and evaluates human work systems with the goal of optimizing the performance and safety of those systems. The bill also includes protections against retaliation to protect any worker who reports any issues. Furthermore, employers must promptly address any risk factors that have caused or could potentially cause musculoskeletal injuries and disorders.

    Partner With Us!

    If this bill that requires safety initiatives for warehouse workers to pass, a professional employer organization (PEO) like GMS can assist small business owners in a variety of ways. Our experts help you navigate complex employment laws and regulations. We will help you understand the requirements of this bill and ensure compliance with its provisions, including developing and implementing the necessary safety initiatives and injury reduction plans.

    In addition, our safety experts can conduct comprehensive risk assessments of the workplace to identify potential hazards and areas of non-compliance and implement measures to mitigate them effectively. Ultimately, we’re here to provide ongoing HR support to small business owners. We help you stay updated on any changes to laws or regulations, provide guidance on best practices for maintaining a safe workplace, and assist with resolving any safety-related issues that may arise. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business thrive.

  • Workers’ compensation is a crucial aspect of the employment system that protects employees who are injured or have fallen ill while performing their job duties. It provides medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs to employees who are injured or become ill at their job. It also pays death benefits to families of employees who are killed on the job. Each state mandates the coverage, and the wage and medical benefits vary by state.

    Unfortunately, many misconceptions about workers’ compensation can prevent workers from receiving the support they need. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the most common misconceptions about workers’ compensation and how to avoid them.

    Misconception #1: Workers’ compensation is only for workplace injuries

    One of the most common misconceptions about workers’ compensation is that it only covers injuries that occur on the job site. In reality, workers’ compensation can cover various work-related injuries and illnesses, including those outside the workplace. For example, if an employee is injured while attending a work-related event or traveling for work, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

    Misconception #2: Workers’ compensation is only for severe injuries 

    Another common misconception is that workers’ compensation is only for severe injuries that result in long-term disability or death. However, workers’ compensation can also cover minor injuries that require medical attention, such as sprains or strains. In fact, employees must report even minor injuries to their employer and seek medical attention, as these injuries can worsen over time and lead to more serious health problems.

    Misconception #3: You can’t receive workers’ compensation if the accident was your fault

    Some employees may hesitate to file a workers’ compensation claim if they believe the accident was their fault. However, workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning employees can receive benefits regardless of who caused the accident. As long as the injury occurred while the employee performed work-related duties, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

    Misconception #4: Workers’ compensation is too difficult to navigate

    Navigating the workers’ compensation system can seem overwhelming; however, resources are available to help employees understand their rights and file a claim. Employees must familiarize themselves with their company’s workers’ compensation policies and procedures and seek help if needed.

    Have You Considered Utilizing A PEO? 

    At GMS, we understand how challenging workers’ compensation can be while you’re trying to grow your business. Since we’re a professional employer organization (PEO), we provide small businesses with the peace of mind they need when it comes to workers’ compensation. By partnering with us, small business owners can avoid common workers’ compensation pitfalls and protect their businesses from the financial and legal repercussions of workplace injuries. You can now focus on running and growing your business, knowing you have the expertise and resources to manage your workers’ compensation needs. Don’t let these misconceptions about workers’ compensation hold your business back – partner with GMS today and take the first step toward a simpler, safer, and strong business.