What are Workers’ Compensation History Checks?

When it comes to hiring new employees or managing current ones, understanding their workers’ compensation history can be a crucial aspect of the process. Let’s explore what Workers’ Compensation History Checks are, their alternative names, why they’re conducted, what’s included, and how to carry out these checks effectively.

What are Workers’ Compensation History Checks?

Workers’ compensation history checks are evaluations designed to review any claims an employee or candidate has made under workers’ compensation insurance. These checks can reveal the nature and outcome of any claims, providing insights into past workplace injuries or illnesses.

At their essence, workers’ compensation history checks are investigative processes aimed at uncovering any previous claims an individual has made under workers’ compensation insurance. This scrutiny helps to illuminate the nature of past injuries or illnesses and the outcomes of those claims. Such evaluations are instrumental in painting a broader picture of an individual’s approach to safety and their experiences with workplace injuries or illnesses.

What is a Workers’ Compensation History Check Also Called?

You might hear these checks referred to as “workers’ comp claims checks” or “employment injury history reviews.” Whatever the name, the goal is to assess the history of claims to understand potential risk factors or patterns that could impact future employment.

Known by several names, including “workers’ comp claims checks” and “employment injury history reviews,” these evaluations share a common objective: to sift through an individual’s history of claims. This exploration seeks to unearth any patterns or risk factors that could influence their suitability for certain roles or impact future workplace safety.

Why Conduct Workers’ Compensation History Checks?

The main purpose behind conducting these checks is twofold: to ensure workplace safety and to manage risk. For employers, understanding the history of a candidate’s or employee’s workers’ comp claims can help in making informed decisions about job placements, especially for positions that may pose physical risks. It’s also a step towards creating a safer work environment by identifying potential areas for safety improvements.

The reasons for undertaking workers’ compensation history checks are multifaceted. Primarily, they are conducted to bolster workplace safety and effectively manage risk. By uncovering the history of a candidate’s or employee’s past claims, employers can make more enlightened decisions regarding job placements. This is particularly vital for roles that entail inherent physical risks, where understanding an individual’s past injuries could be pivotal in preventing future accidents. Additionally, these checks are a proactive measure in identifying areas where workplace safety could be enhanced, thereby reducing the likelihood of future claims.

What is Included in a Workers’ Compensation History Check?

A typical check will cover details such as:

• Date of Injury: Pinpoints the exact date(s) when the injury or illness occurred, offering insight into the frequency and recency of claims.
• Nature of the Injury: Delivers a detailed description of the injury or illness, shedding light on the severity and type of incidents the individual has experienced.
• Outcome of the Claim: Reveals how each claim was resolved, including the provision of any benefits. This information can indicate the legitimacy and seriousness of the claims.
• Time Off Work: Details the length of any absences from work due to injuries, providing a gauge of the impact on the individual’s professional life and their recovery process.

This information provides a clearer picture of an individual’s history with workplace injuries, which can be essential for roles with specific physical demands.

How to Run Workers’ Compensation History Checks?

Running a workers’ compensation history check involves several steps to ensure legality and fairness:

1. Obtain Consent: First, it’s necessary to have written consent from the individual whose history is being checked. This is not only a matter of respect but also complies with privacy laws and regulations.
2. Know the Laws: Familiarize yourself with state and federal laws regarding workers’ compensation history checks. Laws vary by jurisdiction regarding what can legally be checked and used in employment decisions.
3. Use Authorized Channels: Typically, workers’ compensation records are held by state workers’ compensation boards or agencies. Accessing these records often requires specific forms and justifications, so it’s important to follow the correct procedures.
4. Assess the Information Carefully: Once you have the information, it’s crucial to use it responsibly. Evaluate the history in the context of the job’s physical requirements and consider any accommodations that might be necessary.

For a more in-depth description and tips on companies that can help with this type of background check, see: How to run a Workers’ Compensation History Check.

Workers’ compensation history checks are a valuable tool for employers to understand the safety and risk factors associated with potential hires or current employees. Conducting these checks thoughtfully and legally not only helps in creating a safer workplace but also ensures that employment practices are fair and informed. By taking into account the history of workers’ comp claims, employers can make better decisions that benefit both the company and its employees, fostering a proactive approach to workplace safety and health.