Securing Farm Workers Insurance

Your farm is a complex operation, and your greatest asset is the team of dedicated people who help you run it. Protecting your farm workers is not only a moral obligation, but a legal and financial necessity. A standard farm insurance policy typically won’t cover employee injuries, which is why a specialized approach to farm workers insurance is a vital part of your business plan.

This guide from Hitchings Insurance will explain what farm workers insurance is, detail the essential coverages you need, and provide proactive strategies to create a safer work environment for everyone on your farm.

The Foundation: Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Workers’ Compensation is the cornerstone of farm workers insurance. It is a no-fault system that provides crucial benefits to your employees if they are injured or become ill as a direct result of their work on your farm.

In Ohio, if you have one or more employees, including seasonal or part-time help, you are generally required by law to have this coverage.

Workers’ Compensation provides benefits for:

• Medical Expenses: It covers the cost of hospital visits, doctor appointments, prescription medications, and rehabilitation services related to the work injury.
• Lost Wages: It provides a portion of the employee’s income while they are unable to work due to the injury or illness.
• Death Benefits: In the tragic event of a work-related fatality, it provides financial support to the employee’s dependents.

By providing this coverage, you are protecting your employees and ensuring they get the care they need without facing financial hardship.

Beyond Workers’ Comp: Additional Essential Coverages

While Workers’ Compensation is the core of your protection, other policies are essential to safeguard your farm from all angles.

• Employers’ Liability: This is a critical, often-overlooked coverage. While Workers’ Compensation is the “exclusive remedy” for most employee injuries, there are exceptions. This policy protects your business against lawsuits filed by an employee or their family for injuries that fall outside the Workers’ Compensation system. This includes claims of gross negligence or “third-party over” lawsuits where a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer is also brought into a claim.
• Farm and Commercial Auto: If your employees operate company vehicles, such as farm trucks or vans, you need commercial auto coverage to protect against accidents. Even if a worker is driving a tractor on your property and causes an accident with a 3^rd party vehicle, this coverage can come into play.
• General Liability: This covers claims of bodily injury or property damage to third parties who are not your employees. For example, if a visitor or a customer gets injured on your property, this policy would respond. It’s a crucial distinction from Workers’ Compensation, which only covers your employees.

Proactive Risk Mitigation for Your Farm

A comprehensive insurance program is your safety net, but proactive risk management is the best way to keep your workers safe and your premiums low.

1. Prioritize Safety Training: Implement regular, mandatory safety training for all employees. This should include proper procedures for operating all farm machinery and equipment, safe handling of chemicals and pesticides, and proper lifting techniques to prevent back injuries.
2. Regular Equipment Maintenance: A well-maintained tractor, sprayer, or harvester is a safe one. Regularly inspect all equipment for signs of wear and tear, and perform all scheduled maintenance to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to an accident.
3. Clear Safety Policies: Create a written safety manual for your farm. This should outline what to do in case of an injury, who to contact, and emergency procedures. Ensure all employees have access to this information.
4. Secure Your Property: Mark all hazardous areas with clear signage. Keep all dangerous chemicals and tools securely stored and away from unauthorized access.

Conclusion: Your Partner in Protection

Protecting your farm workers is not just a legal requirement, it’s a fundamental part of running a responsible and sustainable business. By securing the right combination of insurance coverages, including Workers’ Compensation and Employers’ Liability, you can provide a safe environment for your team and protect your business from the financial fallout of an unexpected incident.

Ready to secure your farm with the right protection? Contact Hitchings Insurance in Ohio today for a no-obligation consultation. We’ll help you build a comprehensive insurance plan that safeguards your business and the people who make it run.