As a Georgia employer, you are legally obligated to provide a safe workplace for your employees. This obligation is outlined in the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), a federal law that sets workplace safety standards and requires employers to comply with these standards. OSHA requires employers to provide a workplace that is free from recognized hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees. This includes providing appropriate training, enforcing safety measures and taking necessary steps to remedy any unsafe condition in the workplace.
Additionally, Georgia employers are required to provide worker's compensation insurance coverage to their employees. Worker's compensation is a system of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. The benefits available under this system include medical treatment, compensation for lost wages and disability benefits. The Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act requires all employers with three or more employees to provide worker's compensation coverage to their employees.
It is important to note that there are some exceptions and limitations to the obligations to provide worker's compensation and to maintain a safe workplace. For example, worker's compensation benefits may not be available in cases where the employee’s injury or illness is caused by drug or alcohol abuse, self-inflicted injury, or intentional misconduct. Likewise, the obligation to maintain a safe workplace may be limited by certain industry-specific standards and regulations.
To ensure compliance with your legal obligations regarding workplace safety and worker's compensation, it is advisable to consult with a licensed attorney. Additionally, you should maintain open channels of communication with your employees and regularly review and enforce workplace safety policies and procedures.
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