The National Insurance Institute (INS) delivered an economic recognition for more than ¢377 million to 48 companies insured against Occupational Risks, which demonstrates their commitment and concern for the health and safety of their workers, as well as their goal of reducing accidents and occupational diseases.
Companies that demonstrate the implementation of good practices received a refund of up to 10% of the premiums paid in the last policy period.
In addition to financial recognition, they were also presented with an award representing the organisation’s commitment to implementing health and safety measures at work.
In the past four years, 313 companies have taken part and 202 organisations have been recognised. The INS has refunded them ¢1.886 billion.
The assessment takes into account practices such as the following:
- Health and safety policies, which include a commitment to providing safe conditions, reducing risks and complying with legal requirements, as well as to continuous improvement.
- Establishment of processes for the identification of hazards and assessment of risks associated with the routine and non-routine activities of the company.
- Legal compliance.
- Occupational health and safety services.
- Implementation and maintenance of actions to eliminate or reduce risks for routine operating tasks, respecting the control hierarchy (elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, use of appropriate personal protective equipment).
- Emergency preparedness and response.
- Participation and consultation with workers (Occupational Health Committees and Offices).
“The recognition that these 48 companies receive today is a reflection of their commitment to responsible risk management and the well-being and safety of their workers, but it is also a sign of the conviction of the INS and our interest in continuing to work together for the protection of Costa Rican workers”, explains Gabriela Chacón, executive president of the INS.
Registered companies complete an affidavit and the INS verifies assurance issues and compliance with requirements through an audit visit to determine compliance with the indicated actions.
The Workers’ Compensation Insurance currently protects more than 1,823,000 workers. As of October 2024, 123,890 cases of work-related accidents have been reported to the INS, equivalent to an investment of ¢129,237 million in medical care and disability payments.
Some images from the event:
