10 Things Every Employer Should Know About IC Hearings
Posted by Eileen Boland - Thursday, December 6, 2007
Employers get it! Document. Document. Document. It has been drilled into their heads for years. Clear and accurate employment manuals. Work Rules. Safety Training. Injury reporting. Safety Training. Alcohol/Drug Testing. Do it. Make sure your records show you did it and that your employees attended.
So, you do all the right things and you still end up at the Industrial Commission. A hearing officer holds your fate in his/her hands. What matters to them? What should you do to maximize your opportunity to prevail? I talked with some of those that represent you at hearings. Here is what they have to say:
- The most believable person is the one acting in a reasonable fashion. No eye rolling. No exhaling in disgust. These tactics will weaken your position. If you want to make a statement, keep it concise and to the point. Do not come off as if this is a personal issues and please, please do not complain about the high cost of your premiums-the hearing officers do not set them and most do not understand them. (Continued)