Workers Compensation in Missouri & Your Obligations as a Business Owner

Whether you are running a multi-branch national organization or considering starting your own small business, it’s important to have the facts when it comes to workers compensation insurance in Missouri. As an employer, you have specific obligations. Here is an outline of your main responsibilities:

A legal requirement – In many states it’s mandatory to have workers compensation in place if your business has employees. This may vary depending on the size and nature of your business, so always check your state’s requirements.

Safety precautions – As an employer, you have obligations to provide a safe and secure workplace for your employees. Ensure the workplace meets safety standards. Provide all staff with a list of safety guidelines, and ensure safety procedures for particular tasks are adhered to. Provide protective work gear and full training in the use of all equipment, and ensure staff members are given adequate rest breaks.

Insurance Claims – Your insurance provider will have a specific process if a claim is to be lodged, which will involve official forms from both parties as well as medical certificates. Ensure you are fully aware of everything that will be required ahead of time.

Return to Work – When an employee returns to work after injury, but they have not completely recovered, they may need to be on ‘light duties.’ Your insurer will discuss this with you. You’ll need to ensure that the circumstances that led to the initial injury have been rectified.

Knowing your obligations as an employer and doing everything you can to maintain a safe working environment will help to keep Missouri workers compensation insurance claims to a minimum.