Back Office Operations

In many places where we look these days we can see signs – some larger than others – that the economy is beginning to rebound. Manufacturing, in fact, is expected to see a stronger recovery than the general economy. (See “Powerhouse,” page 8.)

With things starting to turn around, many manufacturers hope to capitalize on the improving economy to expand or ramp up their operations. But with credit regulations and lending criteria now tighter than ever, will the money be available for them to accomplish their expansion goals?
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WORKPLACE INJURIES ARE down, but worker’s compensation costs are up, and that’s leading a lot of employers to try to reduce injuries still further by making their workplaces and work processes more ergonomically safe.

The non-fatal injury and illness rate among private industry employers in 2008 (3.9 cases per 100 workers) was at its lowest level since 2002 when record-keeping requirements were revised, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, the injury and illness incidence rate among private industry employers has declined significantly each year since 2003. Yet, figures from the Insurance Information Institute show that the average cost of a worker’s compensation claim has skyrocketed in recent years, primarily because of rising health care costs.
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Sometimes hard sacrifices must be made in order to make positive changes – even if it means saying goodbye to the doughnuts.

When Menasha-based electrical contractor Faith Technologies was transitioning to a healthier workplace, the company asked a vendor who brought in doughnuts each Friday to please bring in healthy snacks instead. Instead of taking its doughnuts elsewhere, the vendor readily switched to fruits and bagels with low-fat cream cheese, says Katie Behm, wellness specialist.
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