Reflection:
This unit focused on workers compensation and safety. This was a lot of new information that I had little experience working with. The only exception was the work with MSDS sheets and when to report injuries. As a manager, I have worked with both MSDS sheets and hazardous chemical safety plans, so this part of the unit was mostly review. When it comes to injuries, I thought I knew a lot about when to report, but I found a whole host of new information. I particularly enjoyed the injury scenarios and determining and justifying whether these injuries were reportable. The classmate discussions were engaging and easy to follow.
The hardest part of unit three was workman’s comp laws, specifically Iowa laws. This is a part of HR that I haven’t ever had to deal with in my work experience. I struggled to wrap my head around items and locate the supporting data I needed to make decisions. After a second review of the coursework in this unit, I feel more comfortable. If given an opportunity to choose a HR focus area, workman’s comp wouldn’t my strong suit. I much prefer areas like disability or FMLA.
Skills Inventory:
Workers Compensation: General understanding of laws surrounding workman’s compensation. Proficient at locating Iowa WC laws, beginning level knowledge of Iowa laws.
OSHA Recordkeeping: Able to determine when recordkeeping is required. Can support decisions with OSHA regulation and/or interpretations. Knowledgeable on who to contact if questions arise.
OSHA Work Relatedness: Competent at determining work relatedness. Able to research and locate documents/statements supporting interpretation/determination.
Safety Data Analysis - Pivot Tables: Able to create pivot tables and charts to review large quantities of data. Identify problem areas through correct data selection and sorting.
MSDS: Easily locates MSDS sheets. Recognizes when MSDS sheets must be changed out, reviewed, and when new sheets must be added.
Hazard Communications: Able to review hazard communication plans, identify needs, and adjust to meet the OSHA Hazard Communication Standards