One of the simplest ways an employer can reduce claims costs is by early notification of injury.

Early reporting is encouraged by WorkCover NSW as research shows that early treatment and workplace injury management can improve, not only return to work outcomes, but also the overall cost of claims to you as an employer.

Quick action in this regard may prevent an injured worker from being away from work for a prolonged period of time.

Further to this, if an employer in New South Wales does not report a known workplace injury promptly, a claims excess is payable which is equal to wages for the first week of time lost. This cost will be charged back to you as an employer. This is outlined in legislation located in the Workers Compensation Act 1987 No 70 Section 160 (2).

Notification should be made to the workers compensation insurer within 48 hours of a workplace injury occurring. The claims excess will be waived for all employers if the injury is notified within five days of the employer becoming aware of the injury.

Notifying your insurer does not have to be a difficult process. At Employers Mutual initial injury notification is available online, and is quick and simple to complete. The dedicated printing industry team will be available to give you service, advice and training, tailored to your individual needs.

Recently, Employers Mutual identified a large policyholder who paid an additional $80,000 in premiums as a direct result of late reporting of injuries. Unfortunately this is not uncommon and Employers Mutual is focused on working with Printing Industries members to ensure all injuries are reported within required timeframes, saving you money.

Employers Mutual’s partnership with the Printing Industries Association of Australia offers members a comprehensive range of specialised services and benefits.

Some of these include:

• One Team - a dedicated team of experts for members of Printing Industries. This unique service model offers our policyholders a team of specialists from our Claims, Underwriting and Customer Service departments whose aim is to meet and exceed your service expectations.
• We invest in upfront medical and rehabilitation costs in order to achieve sustainable outcomes and reduce any disruption to your business.
• A range of discounted training courses and free seminars to keep you informed and up to date with legislation. A quarterly newsletter and a NewsFlash to announce any important changes that occur.  A comprehensive range of online, real time reports as well as claims information.
• We offer you a customised package to suit your requirements, which may include regular claims reviews, premium projects and payment reminders.

Employers Mutual is committed to working in partnership with Printing Industries to provide ongoing cost savings and innovative solutions for better outcomes for you as an employer. If you would like further details please contact the Business Development Team on (02) 8251 9143.