As summer winds down, many businesses begin the process of wrapping up seasonal operations and saying goodbye to temporary staff. While it might feel like the busy part is over, there are still important steps to take, especially when it comes to workers’ compensation.
Seasonal employees are just as likely to be injured on the job as full-time staff. And even after they’ve left, you could still be responsible for claims. Here’s what employers should keep in mind before seasonal employees finish their shifts for the season.
Review Injury Reports and Open Claims
Before your seasonal team departs, review any incidents or injuries that occurred during their time with your business. If any claims are still open or unresolved, follow up with your workers' compensation carrier to make sure documentation is complete and next steps are clear.
Tip: Ensure incident reports are finalized and accurate. Incomplete paperwork could lead to delays—or worse, denied claims.
Encourage Prompt Reporting Before Departure
Remind all staff—especially seasonal workers—to report any pain, discomfort, or work-related injuries before they leave. Sometimes, minor injuries go unreported until after an employee has left, complicating the claims process.
Tip: Conduct an informal exit conversation that includes a health and safety check-in. It’s a great time to ask, “Did anything happen we should know about?”
Wrap Up Final Paperwork Thoroughly
Make sure all employment records are complete, including:
- Timecards and work logs
- Training certifications
- Accident or safety documentation
This information can be vital if a claim is filed after the employee is gone.
Reinforce Safety Training Until the Last Shift
It’s easy for employees (and employers) to let their guard down at the end of a season. But injuries can happen at any time, especially when people are rushing or distracted.
Keep safety top of mind through their final days by:
- Continuing brief daily safety reminders
- Reinforcing protective gear and safe procedures
- Supervising high-risk tasks closely
Stay in Touch
Just because a seasonal worker is gone doesn’t mean your responsibility ends. If an injury surfaces after employment ends, maintaining contact can help facilitate the claims process and show good faith if questions arise.
Have a plan in place for how seasonal staff can reach you—or your insurance provider—after they leave.
Work With Your Insurance Advisor
Before the season ends, schedule a check-in with your insurance advisor. Together, you can:
- Review open or recent claims
- Analyze injury trends
- Prepare for possible post-season claims
- Plan for your next hiring cycle
At DGK Insurance, our team helps employers like you manage risk, reduce claims, and stay compliant. We can also connect you with resources to improve workplace safety and control workers’ compensation costs long-term.
Protect Your Business—Even After the Season Ends
Whether your seasonal staff worked in retail, hospitality, agriculture, or construction, workers’ compensation doesn’t stop when the summer ends. Take these steps now to reduce risk, stay prepared, and protect your business from post-season surprises.