Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Florida Principle and Practice Licensure Practice Exam

An employee refuses to observe safety rules and use safety equipment. His Workers' Compensation __________.

1. A. Will not be affected.

2. B. Will be reduced 25%.

3. C. Will be reduced 50%.

4. D. Will not be paid, because he contributes to an accident.

The correct answer is: B. Will be reduced 25%.

The correct response is that the employee's Workers' Compensation will be reduced 25%. In many states, including Florida, if an employee willfully violates safety rules or fails to use required safety equipment, this negligence can lead to a reduction in their Workers' Compensation benefits. The principle behind this is that compensation is designed to cover injuries that occur due to workplace hazards, and when an employee disregards established safety protocols, it contributes to the likelihood of injury. In such scenarios, the 25% reduction reflects the acknowledgment that the employee's own actions played a significant role in the occurrence of the injury. This creates a balance between the need to uphold safety regulations in the workplace and the responsibility of employees to adhere to those rules for their own safety and that of their coworkers. It's important for employees to understand that negligence or refusal to follow safety guidelines not only jeopardizes their well-being but can have financial consequences regarding their Workers' Compensation claims. This aspect of workers' compensation law emphasizes the shared responsibility of both employers and employees in maintaining a safe workplace.