Labor unions protect the rights of workers and affect change through the process of collective bargaining. Unions do a great job at fighting for fair wages, benefits and improved working conditions. They have also helped improve workers’ comp programs across the country.

Union members often have a much easier time receiving workers’ compensation benefits than the rest of us. This is because their membership provides them easier access to information about benefits and instructions on how and where to file. Not understanding the process is an obstacle to claiming benefits that union workers don’t have to worry about. Union members also don’t usually fear retaliation from employers like nonunion workers, who don’t have the same protection.

Unions Help Lower Workers’ Comp Cost

Unions support safety improvements. This is an essential benefit to their members but it also helps assist the employer in making workers’ compensation costs more affordable. Unions support OSHA and this alone helps improve safety practices within any industry. They also work with employers to improve the drug testing policy

Union Benefits

Union workers sometimes have more rights and protections than nonunion workers. They have the right to file for workers’ comp benefits just like anyone else that has sustained an injury on the job. With that said, union members often have a different benefit package than regular workers, which will vary from state to state. If they become disabled and cannot do their regular job, they sometimes have reemployment rights under their union contract. This would require the employer to take the union worker back. For non-union members, employers have the right to not accept you back as an employee.

Union Stewards

Union stewards play an important role in protecting members from dangers in the workplace, as well as when they become injured on the job. The steward will make sure that the worker gets the appropriate medical treatment and intervene if the employer starts to get in the way. They will also make sure an accident report is filed appropriately and that the worker knows what his responsibilities are to the employer, such as providing regular updates about his or her condition.

Sometimes union workers can get benefits from a welfare fund that is comprised of employer contributions. Pension funds are also utilized in the event of a workplace injury. Workers’ compensation benefits are awarded differently for union members because they are employed under contracts that dictate how the payments will be handled. Because there are often different parties involved and different types of restrictions, the claim can become complex. This would be the time to consult with a workers’ comp attorney to help you navigate the process. Unions provide assistance for their members but sometimes you need additional legal help. There are many workers’ comp lawyers familiar with union rules that can review your case and inform you of the best way to protect your labor rights.