WHAT IS WORKERS' COMPENSATION: 

Workers' compensation first started in Germany in the 1800's. 
A need was seen to take care of injured workers so they did not 
suffer physically or financially from injuries resulting from 
working for a company. Workers' compensation became common in 
the US in the 1930's and 1940's. It continues today in all 50 
states and in territories. Workers'compensation is similar in 
Canada. Workers' compensation is basically the same and a change 
in benefits in a particular state may result in similar changes 
in other states. When workers' compensation was first proposed, 
a compromise was reached between businesses and the worker. 
In order to encourage businesses to accept full responsibility 
for the premium costs of workers'compensation, the workers gave 
up the right to sue the employer for damages resulting from a job 
related injury. This "doctrine" continues basically intact to 
this day. Rather than a benefit, workers' compensation is a 
legally mandated right of the worker. Businesses who meet 
certain requirements must provide workers' compensation for 
all employees of the business. There are fines and other forms 
of punishment for businesses (and owners) who have not provided 
coverage as required by law. Workers' compensation is purchased 
from several possible sources: Private companies, State Funds, 
Insurance Pools, Self Insurance Programs. Workers' compensation 
laws and regulations are made by each state and are regulated 
by state officials. Workers' compensation by itself loses money 
for most carriers, so some carriers may require a business to 
purchase other coverages in addition to workers' compensation 
before voluntary workers' compensation coverage is offered by 
the carrier.

Some states require a notice to be posted in the workplace to
advise workers of coverage for job related injuries. The posting
is similar to other displays required by the Federal Government
relating to wage and hour benefits. The notice usually explains
what the basic benefits of workers' compensation are for that
particular state. The posting also explains who to contact for
information. Businesses should check with the regulatory officials
to determine if a workers' compensation poster is required.
Failure to post any required information may result in a fine for 
the business.