By Kevin Cook, NYSRA Director of Member Services
A safe workplace is a key component in not only controlling injuries, but also in controlling your Workers’ Compensation cost.
Creating a safe workplace is a long-term continuous project that takes commitment from upper management in order to create a business environment that has low accident rates, low turn-over and high levels of productivity. Ultimately, this will result in lower annual workers’ compensation claims.
Management must make the commitment to safety and, most importantly, clearly communicate the plan to your staff. Along with the required posting notices, the company safety plan and procedures should be posted. The importance of safety should be part of employee orientation as well as any employee manual.
The safety of your employees must take precedence over everything else. Employees should err on the side of safety and they should be able to communicate any safety concerns to management without fear of repercussion. Employees should be offered opportunities to learn and be able to identify unsafe practices or conditions. The more they learn and know the more the likelihood of accidents decreases.
Your insurance carrier and your agent/broker can help you develop safety procedures and manuals. Members of Safety Group 505 have access to free safety checklists and through the New York State Insurance Fund access to free safety inspections.
Safety Group 505 was created by NYSRA members in conjunction with the New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF). The purpose of the Safety Group is to provide premium savings to policyholders and to promote a safe work environment.
- Safety Group 505 paid members a 25% dividend for 2018.
- Average annual premium savings of 40-45% through lower upfront costs and annual dividend.
- Members have received dividends for 34 consecutive years – totaling over $100 million!
- Free training resources on dozens of workplace safety topics available through NYSIF.
- To be eligible for this program you must meet NYSIF underwriting guidelines. Most NYSRA members meet the guidelines.
If you are not part of Safety Group 505, call NYSRA for a free quote at 1-800-452-4212 or email membersavings@nysra.org. Be safe, save money and – be a part of the group.
The New York State Restaurant Association has been giving restaurateurs the power to succeed since 1935. The Association provides a platform for statewide cooperation and leadership on advocacy issues, along with valuable support services to members. Together, they are shaping the future of the restaurant industry. Learn more at their website.
