It’s important for your company to have a workers’ comp program in place. With that said, developing a program is really just the first step. It’s equally important to communicate the specifics of that program to your employees, ensuring that everyone on your team understands how the program works and how it protects their interests.

Specifically, your employees need to know what steps to take if they become injured on the job. And, they need to know that the company will do right by them (assuming realistic expectations, of course).

You can’t just assume that everyone in the company understands what workers’ comp is, nor that they will intuit the particulars of your program. Instead, HR must be clear and consistent in its communication efforts.

Strategies to Communicate About Workers’ Comp

There are a number of strategies that HR should consider here. A few suggestions:

1) Brochure

It’s worth taking some time to develop a brochure, which can be made ready to all employees. This brochure should strike a positive tone, emphasizing that the workers’ comp program exists to take care of employees should they get hurt on the job. Communicate briefly about how the program works, and how employees can seek further information as needed.

2) Wallet Card

Brochures are helpful, but keep in mind that, if an employee does get injured on the job, they will likely forget much of what they learned from that brochure. A handy wallet card can keep key details within arm’s reach. Employee wallet cards should specify:

• How to report a claim
• How and where to get medical care
• Expectations with regard to weekly workers’ comp meetings

3) Phone Call

We also recommend making a phone call to any employee who is injured. This call should come from HR, or from a manager/supervisor with whom the employee has a positive relationship. The call can be brief, but should convey the following information:

• We’re sorry that this happened.
• We want you to be back at work as soon as you are able.
• We’re here to help.
• We care about your wellbeing.
• We can contact your family, or bring anything you left at work, as needed.
• We are here to answer any questions about the workers’ comp process.

4) Get-Well Card

To emphasize how much you care for the injured employee, send a simple get-well card. Try to have it signed by as many team members as possible.

5) Weekly Follow-Ups

Finally, make sure you stay in contact with the injured employee. Reach out on a weekly basis just to check in and see if there are any workers’ comp questions you can answer.

Emphasize Communication

Communication is a critical component of HR’s job, particularly when it comes to worker’s comp. With any questions about developing the best workers’ comp strategies, reach out to FullHR today.