What Farmers Need to Know About Workers’ Compensation: Keeping Your Team and Business Safe

Running a farm is a team effort, and when you’ve got employees helping out, there’s always a risk that someone might get injured. That’s where workers’ compensation insurance comes in. It’s designed to protect both you and your employees if someone gets hurt on the job, covering medical expenses and lost wages so you’re not left scrambling to cover unexpected costs. Here’s what farmers in Eastern Washington need to know about workers’ comp to keep their team safe and their business protected.

1. What Exactly Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation insurance (or “workers’ comp”) is coverage that provides benefits to employees who get injured or sick because of their job. It covers medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and, in some cases, rehabilitation costs. Workers’ comp also protects you as the employer from being sued by the employee for workplace injuries.

Why It Matters: Farming involves a lot of physical work, and the risk of injury is higher than in many other industries. Workers’ comp is your safety net, ensuring employees get the help they need without putting your business at financial risk.

Quick Tip: In most places, workers’ comp is legally required if you have employees, so it’s not something you want to skip. Check your state’s requirements to make sure you’re compliant.

2. Who Needs Workers’ Comp on the Farm?

Generally, any employee working on your farm should be covered by workers’ comp. This includes both full-time and part-time workers, and often even seasonal or temporary employees. Some states have specific requirements for agricultural workers, so it’s important to know who needs to be included to avoid legal or financial trouble.

Why It Matters: Protecting everyone on your team means you’re covered if anything goes wrong. If a worker gets hurt and isn’t covered, you could be on the hook for medical bills and other expenses.

Tactical Tip: Make a list of all employees, including seasonal and part-time help, and verify that your workers’ comp policy covers each one. If you hire temporary workers during planting or harvest, double-check that they’re included, even if they’re only on the farm for a short time.

3. Common Farm Injuries Workers’ Comp Covers

Farm work comes with its fair share of risks. Here are some common farm injuries that workers’ comp typically covers:

• Equipment-Related Injuries: Working with machinery like tractors, balers, and harvesters can lead to serious accidents if something goes wrong.
• Falls and Slips: From barns to grain silos, farm structures can be dangerous, especially in bad weather.
• Animal-Related Injuries: Farms with livestock face unique risks, like kicks, bites, or other animal-related injuries.
• Exposure to Chemicals: Handling pesticides or fertilizers can lead to health issues if proper safety measures aren’t followed.

Why It Matters: Workers’ comp isn’t limited to one type of injury—it’s there to cover a range of incidents that are common in farming. Knowing these risks can help you create a safer work environment and reduce the chance of claims.

Tactical Tip: Take note of the most common risks on your farm and review them with your team. Simple safety measures, like regular training and equipment checks, can prevent accidents and help keep your workers’ comp premiums manageable.

4. How Workers’ Comp Premiums Are Calculated

Your workers’ comp premium is based on several factors, including the type of work your employees do, your claims history, and the size of your team. Farming, as you’d expect, is considered a high-risk industry, so premiums may be higher than for other types of businesses.

Why It Matters: Understanding how premiums are calculated can help you identify ways to save. Fewer claims and safer practices can result in lower rates over time.

Tactical Tip: Implement a safety program on your farm and document all training sessions and safety protocols. Some insurance companies offer discounts for businesses with documented safety practices, and it can help keep premiums in check.

5. What to Do When an Injury Happens

If an employee gets injured, knowing what to do can make a big difference in the claims process. Here’s a quick rundown:

1. Provide Immediate Care: Get medical help for the employee as quickly as possible.
2. Report the Injury: Contact your insurance provider as soon as you can. Timely reporting is essential for a smooth claims process.
3. Document Everything: Write down details about the incident, take photos if applicable, and save any medical documents related to the injury.
4. Follow Up: Stay in contact with the employee and your insurance provider. A little follow-up goes a long way in ensuring a successful recovery and a streamlined claims process.

Why It Matters: Taking the right steps after an injury helps your employee get the care they need and ensures that your workers’ comp claim goes smoothly.

Tactical Tip: Create an “Incident Report” form to keep on hand in case of an accident. This form can help you capture important details quickly and ensure you don’t miss any steps in the process.

6. Benefits of Having Workers’ Comp for Farmers

Workers’ comp doesn’t just protect your employees—it protects your farm as well. Here’s how it benefits you as the business owner:

• Financial Protection: Workers’ comp covers medical bills and lost wages, reducing the financial strain on your business after an injury.
• Employee Morale: Knowing they’re protected if something goes wrong helps employees feel more secure, which can lead to higher morale and productivity.
• Legal Compliance: Workers’ comp is required in most states, so having it helps you stay compliant and avoid legal issues.

Why It Matters: Workers’ comp is a worthwhile investment for farmers, providing protection and peace of mind in a high-risk industry.

Tactical Tip: Regularly remind employees about the importance of safety and how workers’ comp benefits them. A little education can go a long way in reducing risks and claims.

Final Thoughts for Farmers in Eastern Washington

Workers’ compensation might seem like just another expense, but it’s one that can make a huge difference when something goes wrong. By understanding what workers’ comp covers and how to manage it, you can protect both your team and your business from the unexpected.

If you’re ready to make sure your workers’ comp policy covers everything you need, reach out to us at DeLeon Insurance Services. We understand the demands of farming in Eastern Washington, and we’re here to help you keep your farm safe, compliant, and protected. Give us a call, and let’s make sure your team is covered so you can focus on what you do best.