We have recently had a number of Physician, Oral Surgeons and Dentists offices call us in a panic due to a visit from a Compliance Investigator with the Division of Workers Compensation, Bureau of Compliance asking to see a copy of their Workers Compensation policy.
The Compliance Investigator has the authority of issue a Stop-Work order, ceasing all business operations if the employer lacks the required Florida Workers Compensation coverage. In addition, they will assess a penalty equal to 1.5 times the amount the employer would have paid in premium within the preceding three year period.
In all cases we were able to bind coverage for the Doctor/Dentist office the same day we received their call to avoid any unneccesary penalties or stop work orders.
We would like to remind you that if you have 4 or more employees (managing members and corporate officers are used in the count) you are required by law to have Worker’s Compensation Insurance. The investigators do random visits so it is urgent for you to carry this coverage if you are required by statute. Even if you have less than the mandated 4 employee count we highly recommend that you purchase the coverage since it not only protects your employees, it protects employers as well from lawsuits that could result from an injured employee.
The premium is affordable; at $.46 per $100 of payroll and depending on the total premium, you may be eligible for a dividend program which would reduce the premium.
In addition, there is a notice requirement within the statute for offices with fewer than four employees.
440.055 Notice requirements.–An employer who employs fewer than four employees, who is permitted by law to elect not to secure payment of compensation under this chapter, and who elects not to do so shall post clear written notice in a conspicuous location at each worksite directed to all employees and other persons performing services at the worksite of their lack of entitlement to benefits under this chapter.
For more information regarding Workers Compensation or Non-Compliance Violations, please feel free to call us or visit the State of Florida’s Workers Compensation website at: http:/www.myfloridacfo.com/WC
We are here to serve your insurance needs and provide you timely information to help your business grow and stay strong.
