Forms, posters, information and requirements for employers, links to outside resources and newsletter archives.
Legislation that Can’t be Ignored
For the last ten years I have avoided jumping into the legislative process. Like most of our shop leaders, I view my job is to work hard and get the best results possible in the environment that surrounds us. When legislation would change matters, my job would be to adjust and figure out how to succeed and represent our members with the best results possible. I think that’s probably what most of our shop managers do. However, things change and all of a sudden it appears that we have no choice but to be more involved.
MIOSHA is back out in the field with a seemly whole new crew of enforcement officers and they are knocking on lots of policyholder doors. After a few years off due to Covid, it is now necessary that you put safety back into the forefront of your businesses. It is very important that you take this time to dust off your safety programs and review your programs and when the last time your employee’s were trained. You need to ensure that your safety training is up-todate or determine if you are missing some programs due to new equipment installed or change of staffing.
Michigan Workers’ Compensation Administrative Rules dictate that once a claim form concerning an employee work related injury is submitted to the Workers’ Compensation carrier, the Workers’ Compensation carrier has 30 days to make a determination “of some kind”. A definite or final determination of benefits does not have to be made when a claim is first filed with the carrier; BUT the claim has to be addressed. If the initial investigation results in the carrier being able to make a determination that the claim is valid, benefits commence. Benefits would include authorization for medical testing and/or treatment, payment of related bills submitted and payment of wage loss benefits if/when applicable.
The MTM Underwriting and Marketing Departments regularly receive inquiries about Workers’ Compensation coverage for our Member’s out-of-state employees. Often it is because a Member has hired a salesperson, clerical staff or installers who work in other states or an acquired out-of-state facility. Due to an increase in these inquiries, we thought it was a good time to update you on the out-of-state coverage requirements.
First 6 Months of 2023
June 30 – a good time to review our results and see if we are on target or if we need to make adjustments to reach the company goals. An important part of that review is a study of claims losses. Insurance claims are the primary driver of financial results. No other expense category comes close to the percentage impact of claims loss payouts.
MIOSHA requires companies to train on any hazards their workers may encounter. Knowing, understanding, and interpreting MIOSHA rules and regulations can sometimes be confusing. This is why our Loss Control team is here to assist you through the process. Help is only a phone call or an email away and will be answered by one of our Loss Control Consultants. This support is an integral part of MTMIC’s service because we know that safety and health questions are inevitable.