Newsletter Header
 Quick Links
 
Join Our Mailing List
HAZCOM Changes   

OSHA has implemented an update to the HAZCOM standard. Your company must train all employees on the changes by December 1, 2013. This training video discusses upcoming changes to OSHA Hazard Communication Standards. WCF seminars will be taught in 2014 to further explain the program and changes over the next two years. 

Winter Driving
Upcoming Safety Seminars
Safety seminars are a great way to polish, refresh or learn new safety skills and preserve your company's bottom line. Most courses are free for WCF policyholders. To access a full list of classes or to register, click here.
 
DECEMBER
12/4 8:30 - 10:00 Protecting Eyes & Ears
12/4 10:15 - 11:45 Drug Free Workplace: Promoting a Drug Free Workplace
12/5 8:30 - 12:00 Scaffolding Safety
12/12 8:30 - 10:00 Preventing Workplace Slips, Trips, and Falls
12/12 10:15 - 12:00 OSHA 300 Log: Understanding the Requirements 
Per Diem and Your Premium Calculation


Determining what payments to employees are considered payroll for workers compensation premium calculation can be difficult.  This dilemma can be especially difficult with so called "per diem" payments and allowances. It is a common practice for employers to reimburse employees for expenses.
 

However, NCCI, the agency appointed by the State of Utah to govern workers compensation rules, has very specific guidelines that apply to employee expense reimbursement and its inclusion or exclusion as employee payroll. 
These rules state that expense reimbursements or flat allowances to employees, to the extent the expense can be confirmed as valid business expenses, can be excluded from the payroll basis if all of these three conditions are met:

1. The expenses are incurred for the business of the employer
2. The amount of each of the employee's expense payments or allowances are shown separately in the records  of the employer
3. The amount of each employee's expense reimbursement is a fair estimate of the actual expenses incurred by the employee in the conduct of their work

There is one additional caveat to these rules that often presents difficulties to employers in this payroll determination. In cases in which an employer did not maintain verifiable receipts for incurred expenses and it can be determined that the employee was away from home overnight on the business of the employer, a reasonable expense allowance, limited to a maximum of $30 per day, is permitted by NCCI.

 It is the maximum of $30 per day that can present difficulties to employers, especially trucking companies. WCF acknowledges that this maximum of $30 is below that allowed for Federal Tax purposes, but is obligated to abide by the rules developed by NCCI.


Aside from workers compensation considerations, employee expense reimbursement, allowances and "per diems" have Federal and State tax rules that can be complex and difficult to interpret. In the course of their examinations WCF auditors have encountered employee allowances and "per diem" payments that could present severely adverse tax consequences to employers if questioned by authorities. For that reason, WCF strongly advises that companies seek advice from licensed tax professionals to verify their employee reimbursement plans are in compliance with Federal and State regulations.

For additional questions or to express concerns, please feel free contact John Wallin, Vice President of Premium Audit at 385-351-8127.

 

Winter Driving Safety Tips 

Take a few minutes to cover a few basics:

· Get an earlier than usual start and plan for the trip to take longer than normal.

· Clear your entire vehicle of snow. Snow left on the roof and hood can easily end up on the windshield or rear window, obstructing your view.

· Clear ice off all windows and side mirrors. Clearing just a peephole will get you out of the driveway faster, but will also obstruct your line of vision.

· Remove snow from your shoes before you get in the car to avoid fogging up the windows and creating slippery gas and brake pedals.

· Always use your seatbelt and insist any passengers do so as well.

· Keep an extra car key in your wallet or pocket. If you accidentally lock yourself out, you won't be stranded in the cold.

· Tell someone your planned route and estimated arrival time in case something happens, especially on longer trips.


On the Road:

· Slow down. Posted speed limits are meant for ideal (i.e., dry) conditions; adjust your speed down during slick weather. This is even true for four-wheel drive vehicles.

· Don't talk on your cell phone while driving.

· Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you in case of sudden stops, black ice, etc. If the vehicle behind is following too closely, change lanes or try slowing down so they will pass you.

· Try not to make sudden stops or direction changes, such as going across three lanes of traffic to make that last minute exit.

· Keep your headlights on.

· Pay attention to other drivers and anticipate what they may do.

· Watch for cars on side streets that are trying to pull out into traffic.

· Slow down while approaching intersections.

· Keep clear of snowplows, big rigs and other large vehicles, which can suddenly blind you with snow spray. Never pass a snowplow on the right.

· Do not use cruise control in cold or wet weather. Tapping on your brakes to disengage can cause you to slip and slide.

· Be alert for ice, especially on bridges and in shaded areas.

· During especially hazardous and treacherous conditions, don't try to drive out of the storm; seek shelter until the worst passes.


Braking & Skidding:

· At the first sign of brake lights, start slowing down. Try to avoid slamming on the brakes.

· If you have anti-lock brakes, do not pump them. Keep constant, firm pressure on the brake pedal until the vehicle comes to a complete stop.

· If you start to skid, take your foot off the pedal and steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go. Do not hit the brakes or accelerate.


Chains:

· If highways signs say chains are required, you must either stop and put them on, or turn back.

· Pull completely out of traffic to put on and take off chains.Stopping in a traffic lane not only blocks traffic, it greatly endangers your physical safety.


What to Do if Stranded:

· If your vehicle breaks down, or is stalled or stranded, don't panic.

· Turn on the emergency flashers or set up flares.

· If you're stuck, try straightening the wheels and accelerating slowly. Don't let the tires spin endlessly; it only helps create a mess. (Consult your owner's manual for the best way to get the vehicle unstuck.)

· Turn the car on occasionally to keep warm. If it is snowing, check the tailpipe every so often to ensure it is not covered with snow.

·You may also want to crack a window slightly to avoid potential carbon monoxide build up.

· Move around once in a while to keep your circulation up.

· If it is snowing or raining, stay with your vehicle unless help is within 100 yards.


Know the Conditions:

Winter weather can change fast and unexpectedly. For the latest updates on road conditions around Utah 24-hours a day:

 

· Call 511 in Utah,

· Call 866-511-UTAH (8824) outside Utah, or

· Visit www.CommuterLink.utah.gov.