Employers have a fiduciary responsibility to protect their personnel and company assets, and it begins by ensuring that every employee is physically capable of performing their job safely. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 guarantees every worker the right to a safe environment, and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) ensures injured employees receive benefits.

First Choice is proud to be Arkansas’ most trusted third-party administrator, and we offer every conceivable lab test at our southwest Little Rock testing center. We offer industry-leading turnaround times on drug testing services and keep a Medical Review Officer (MRO) on staff to ensure the accuracy of all testing results. We can also ensure that workplaces meet their workers’ compensation requirements and offer fit-for-duty exams by appointment. Here are a few frequently asked questions about workers’ compensation, and we’re always a phone call away if you don’t see the answer to your specific question in the section below.

What are the benefits of workers’ compensation insurance? Workers’ compensation insurance is administered and underwritten by insurance carriers, providing wage replacement, medical care, and rehabilitation for eligible employees who are injured on the job or who develop a work-related illness. Employers who comply with workers’ compensation insurance requirements won’t be forced to pay those expenses out of their own budgets as their employees recover.

Why are fit-for-duty exams required? A fit-for-duty exam typically takes less than an hour, and is an essential component of meeting your workers’ compensation requirements. The exam confirms an employee can meet the physical demands of the job and also helps to document prior injuries so you’re not held liable for unrelated claims. Your new employees should undergo the exam before they start work, and when current employees file a workers’ compensation claim, they must undergo an additional examination before returning to duty.

How can I prevent workplace accidents? Safety in the workplace is everyone’s responsibility, and the safest workplaces are those with open lines of communication and clear safety protocols that are consistently followed. Even your most experienced employees should undergo safety training at least annually, and line employees should be encouraged to report any safety hazards they encounter immediately without fear of reprisal.

To learn more about workers’ compensation insurance or to schedule a fit-for-duty exam, contact us online or at 501-661-9992.