Workers' Comp for Unions and Employers
Collectively bargained workers' compensation agreements (WCA's) refer to the agreements made between employers and labor unions regarding benefits and medical care to be provided to union employees in case of a workplace injury or illness. These agreements are part of the collective bargaining process where the union represents the employees in negotiating terms and conditions of employment with the employer. WCA's are often negotiated separately as standalone agreements.
Procedures
Subject to state law, workers' compensation agreements between employers and unions can determine the types of benefits that will be provided to employees in case of a workplace injury. They can also establish procedures for such things as filing claims, determining eligibility for benefits, and appealing denied claims.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
A WCA may establish an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process if the state recognizes collectively bargained agreements that include ADR provisions. Under this scenario, employers and unions agree to "carve out" the state system and replace it with their own ADR system for handling workers' compensation disputes.
Advantages
Collectively bargained workers' compensation agreements offer several advantages for both employers and employees.
For employers, these agreements provide stability and predictability in the cost of workers compensation, which may help them be more competitive when bidding for jobs or hiring workers. WCA's can also offer a quicker and more efficient resolution of claims, as the process for filing and resolving claims is established and agreed upon by both parties.
For employees, these agreements can offer more comprehensive and generous benefits compared to the standard workers compensation offered by the state, while delivering a more streamlined process that reduces delays in receiving medical treatment and benefits.
Mutually Beneficial
Collectively bargained workers' compensation agreements are an important aspect of the collective bargaining process that provides stability, predictability, and comprehensive benefits to employees in case of a workplace injury or illness. These agreements ensure that both employers and employees are protected and that the process for resolving claims is efficient and fair.