Using a combination of employee incentives and training, Lewiston has been able to radically alter the amount of money it spends on workers compensation claims.

The city’s success sounds almost too good to be true. In 2001, Lewiston spent $1.37 million on claims for 131 injuries. In 2004, both the number of claims and their seriousness have been drastically reduced. The city spent just $101,127 on 63 injuries.

There are many factors that contribute to workers compensation claims. Accidents happen, backs are strained and employees get hurt. There’s a fair amount of luck involved, given the high cost for medical care. One serious injury could easily account for medical bills close to the total the city spent in 2004.

Yet being proactive and instituting an impressive program that rewards behavior and teaches employees about workplace safety can pay huge dividends.

Since the city implemented its safety-and-incentive program, the number of workers compensation complaints has been declining steadily. It’s not free. The city invests between $50,000 and $55,000 in its safety incentives.

But the payoff is clear. Workers are rewarded for being safe and avoiding preventable accidents, and the city reduces its costs due to lost time and medical expenses. And best of all, fewer people get hurt.

Lewiston deserves credit for its efforts to keep its people safe and for the good stewardship of public money that can now be used for things besides workers compensation claims.