by Thomas Lynch

Many companies have recognized a basic truth about workers compensation: that the worksite is the best place to control losses, and that they, as employers, have the maximum leverage to lower losses. These employers no longer try to hand the problem off to their legislators, their insurers or their attorneys; instead, they manage workers compensation as a controllable expense. This fundamental shift in attitude empowers employers to take charge of workers compensation.

How have they done this? What are the key steps foresighted employers take?  After more than 25 years of assisting many of America's leading corporations as they struggled with this issue, I've concluded that there are eight essential strategies that help savvy employers turn workers compensation liabilities into assets. The principles are simple, founded on basic human values. They involve a concrete action plan and sound management. More important, they work.