Benefits of compassionate and prompt worker care

In any workplace, be it on a farm, ranch or in commercial ag facility, the well-being of employees should be a top priority. Between 2021 and 2022, there were 21,020 injuries in agricultural production that required days away from work.¹ When an injury occurs, the speed and quality of medical care can significantly influence recovery outcomes. Employers who act swiftly to respond to an employee’s work injury demonstrate a commitment to their employees' health. This may not only help in faster recovery but may also reduce the long-term impact of injuries. Quick action can prevent complications, reduce downtime, and ensure that workers receive the best possible care.

When an employee is injured on the job, it's crucial for an employer to respond with compassion and support. Here are some immediate actions as an employer you can take:

1. Provide immediate medical attention: When necessary, ensure the injured employee receives prompt medical care. This might involve calling nurse triage while administering first aid or calling for emergency medical services if needed.
2. Express empathy and concern: Show genuine concern for the employee's well-being. A simple gesture like a text or a call to check on the employee can make a significant difference.
3. Reassure the employee: Let the injured worker know that the company will support them in their recovery from the work injury including light duty when returning to work. This can help alleviate any anxiety about their position.
4. Communicate clearly: Provide resources for the Nationwide adjuster or human resources for benefits. This helps the employee understand the support available to them.
5. Stay in touch: Maintain regular communication with the injured employee. This shows ongoing support and helps them feel connected to the workplace.
6. Report the incident: Have clearly defined processes for investigating work injuries and notify your workers' compensation insurer to ensure all necessary steps are taken for the employee's benefit.

Benefits to the bottom line and worker loyalty

Compassionate care significantly impacts insurance and workers' compensation costs by fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes the well-being of injured employees. When employers respond empathetically to workplace injuries, they can expedite a timely and appropriate response to a work injury, reducing recovery times and minimizing lost workdays. This approach may not only help in quicker recovery but may also decrease the likelihood of prolonged disability claims.

Compassionate practices, such as maintaining open communication and providing emotional support, can reduce the incidence of litigation and disputes, leading to fewer and less costly claims. A compassionate approach strengthens employee trust and loyalty, which translates to lower turnover rates and a more engaged workforce, positively affecting the company's bottom line.

Meaningful return-to-work practices

A well-structured return-to-work program is essential for helping injured workers reintegrate into the workplace. This involves creating individualized plans that consider the worker's medical condition, capabilities and job requirements. Employers should offer flexible work arrangements, modified duties, and ongoing support to ensure a smooth transition. Meaningful return-to-work practices not only aid in recovery but also show employees that their contributions are valued.

Compassion matters

Employers who prioritize compassion in their worker safety programs create a healthier, more productive work environment. Quick medical intervention, addressing safety issues, and implementing meaningful return-to-work practices not only benefit the injured workers but also contribute to the overall success of the organization. By fostering a culture of care and support, employers can enhance their bottom line and build lasting worker loyalty.

Additional resources

• The WHAT: Actions in the First 30 Minutes of an Injury
• How to Support Your Employee After a Workplace Accident
• The role of compassion in the workplace
• Effectiveness of workplace health promotion programs for industrial workers: a systematic review
• The Hidden Truth About Workers Comp Claims No One Tells You 
  

[1] Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024a). TABLE R4. Number of nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses involving days away from work, restricted activity, or job transfer (DART), days away from work (DAFW), and days of restricted work activity, or job transfer (DJTR) by industry and selected events or exposures leading to injury or illness, private industry, 2021-2022.