A safe and healthy workplace not only protects workers from injury and illness, it can also lower injury/illness costs, reduce absenteeism and turnover, increase productivity and quality, and raise employee morale. In other words, safety is good for business. Plus, protecting workers is the right thing to do.The cost of workplace injuries, illnesses and deaths is much greater than the cost of workers' compensation insurance alone. Insurance is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to these costs. 73% of Maine business people surveyed in 2003 believe a comprehensive safety and health program reduces workers' compensation insurance rates and improves the work environment. Over 80% believe it reduces overall injury expenses.
