Workers' Compensation

On-the-job injuries are covered by the Company's workers' compensation insurance policy, maintained in accordance with the Florida Workers' Compensation Act, Florida Statutes Chapter 440. This insurance is provided at no cost to the employee. The program covers most injuries and illnesses sustained in the course of employment that require medical, surgical, or hospital treatment. Subject to applicable legal requirements, workers' compensation insurance provides benefits or, where the employee is hospitalized, provides treatment immediately. Under Florida law, the workers' compensation system is the exclusive remedy for most work-related injuries.

If the employee is injured on the job, no matter how slightly, the incident must be reported immediately to the supervisor or to Human Resources. Florida law requires that work-related injuries be reported to the employer within thirty days of the injury or of the employee's knowledge of an occupational disease, and a delay in reporting could jeopardize the claim. Employees are also asked to alert management to any condition that could lead to or contribute to a workplace accident.

Employees who need to take time off from work due to a workers' compensation illness or injury may also be eligible for a leave of absence under the Company's leave or reasonable accommodation policies. Contact Human Resources for additional information.

The Company will not discharge or otherwise discriminate against any employee because the employee reports a work-related fatality, injury, or illness. The Company will, however, notify its workers' compensation insurance carrier if there is reason to believe an employee has supplied false or misleading information in connection with a claim or has filed a fraudulent claim. Workers' compensation fraud is a crime under Florida law and may also be grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Employees who are ready to return to work following a workers' compensation-related leave of absence must supply a certification from a health care provider confirming the employee's ability to return to work.