Workers Compensation Insurance
Workers comp is mandatory in nearly every state from your first employee. Fireproofing crews work at height on structural steel and around airborne material — serious injury exposure. Workers comp pays medical costs and lost wages for injured workers and shields you from injury lawsuits.
Workers Comp for Fireproofing Crews
Workers compensation is required by law in almost every state once you hire your first employee — and structural fireproofing is among the more hazardous trades, with work at height and significant respiratory exposure. It pays for job-related injuries and illnesses, and in exchange generally protects you from being sued directly by an injured worker.
Fireproofing-Crew Exposures
- Falls from height: Working on scaffolding, lifts, and elevated structural steel
- Respiratory exposure: Silica dust and, on older buildings, asbestos
- Struck-by & caught-in: Congested multi-trade construction environments
- Sprains, strains & lifting: Moving bags of material, hoses, and equipment
- Spray-equipment injuries: High-pressure pumps, mixers, and hoses
What It Pays
- Medical treatment for work-related injuries and illnesses
- Lost wages during recovery
- Permanent disability benefits
- Death benefits to dependents
- Employer's liability for injury lawsuits
Class Codes, EMR & Subcontractors
Fireproofing class codes are higher-rated because of the fall and respiratory exposure, so correct classification, a strong safety program, and a low experience modification rate (EMR) directly control your premium — and your EMR is often reviewed by GCs before they'll hire you. Uninsured subcontractors can also be picked up at audit, so collecting their certificates matters. We review your codes and prepare you for the annual audit.
What's Covered
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need workers comp for a small fireproofing crew?
In almost every state, yes — workers comp is required once you have any employees, often from the first hire. Fireproofing involves work at height and respiratory exposure, so coverage is both legally required and genuinely important. We confirm the rule for your state.
Why does my EMR matter to general contractors?
Your experience modification rate (EMR) reflects your claims history, and many general contractors review it before hiring a fireproofing sub — a high EMR can keep you off jobs entirely. A strong safety program and correct class codes lower your EMR over time, which both reduces premium and keeps you eligible for work.