Risk manager: Larimer County outperformed peers on workers’ compensation; training and prevention credited
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Summary
Risk Manager Jeff Green told commissioners Larimer County’s 2024 workers’ compensation experience‑mod rating was about 39% better than comparable agencies; countywide prevention efforts and targeted training contributed, he said.
Jeff Green, Larimer County risk manager, briefed the commission Sept. 22 on workers’ compensation performance. Using the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) experience modification rating, Green said Larimer’s 2024 rating was about 39% better than similar agencies and noted the measure can swing if a single large loss occurs.
Green emphasized internal improvements and prevention: the county spent less on workers‑comp claims in 2024 than in 2011 despite a nearly 28% increase in employee count and a roughly 32% increase in the Colorado workers’‑comp medical fee schedule across the same period. He credited coordinated training—tailored to operating divisions such as natural resources, road and bridge and solid waste—programs like Rock Solid at Work, seasonal safety briefings and partnerships with operating divisions for performance gains.
Commissioners asked for examples; Green cited ergonomic and body‑mechanics trainings, defensive driving and early‑season training for seasonal staff. He and Chair Kristen Stevens framed the approach as both fiscal and human: reducing claims saves money and reduces long‑term harm to employees.
Why it matters: lower workers’ compensation costs reflect both budgetary savings and fewer injured employees; training and prevention approaches are relevant to other counties considering similar programs.
No formal action was taken; commissioners thanked risk staff for the results.