Workers’ Compensation Code 8810, the Clerical class code, is one of the lowest-rated workers’ compensation codes available due to the limited risk associated with strictly clerical work. But, it’s crucial to understand just how narrowly defined “clerical work” is under this code. In California, the Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau (WCIRB) has strict guidelines that define what qualifies as “clerical,” and stepping outside these boundaries, even briefly, can lead to a reclassification that drastically increases premiums.
What Qualifies as “Clerical” Work Under Code 8810?
The WCIRB specifically defines 8810 clerical work as tasks performed exclusively in an office setting, with absolutely no physical exposure to higher-risk areas such as warehouses, manufacturing floors, or customer-facing roles. Clerical employees should spend 100% of their work time engaged in administrative functions such as:
- Typing and filing
- Data entry
- Email and phone communication
- Scheduling
- Handling paperwork
These duties are strictly limited to an office environment, away from potential hazards associated with other areas of operation.
Why the WCIRB is Strict About Code 8810
The low rate for code 8810 is based on the minimal risk expected in a purely clerical role. When an employee classified under 8810 steps outside this role, such as by entering a warehouse, assisting customers in a storefront, or even performing physical tasks, they’re exposed to significantly higher risk levels. This shift affects not only their safety but also the broader workers’ compensation landscape by introducing risk that the 8810 code is not designed to account for.
This misclassification can drive up rates for other businesses that follow 8810 rules precisely. In fact, WCIRB has observed that unauthorized exposure to higher-risk duties by clerical employees is one of the factors contributing to increased premiums across all industries. For this reason, the WCIRB has issued strict guidelines to ensure only those performing strictly clerical tasks are classified under this low-rate code.
Avoiding Misclassification: Best Practices
To avoid costly reclassifications, here are some guidelines to ensure compliance with 8810:
- Limit Clerical Staff to Office-Only Duties: Make sure that employees classified as 8810 clerical do not step into warehouses, production floors, or any other high-risk areas.
- Assign Specific Employees for Multi-Role Tasks: If clerical employees need to perform tasks beyond the clerical scope, designate one or more individuals who can manage these multi-role responsibilities. These employees should be classified under the appropriate workers’ compensation code that accounts for their higher-risk activities.
- Educate Staff and Supervisors: Supervisors and clerical employees must understand the strict definition of clerical work under code 8810 and the consequences of crossing these boundaries. Even brief assistance in a warehouse or customer-facing role can affect your business’s premiums.
- Monitor and Communicate Guidelines Regularly: Keeping lines of communication open with clerical staff and supervisors about these restrictions can prevent unintentional misclassification.
WCIRB California’s Clerical Code 8810 Rules
According to the WCIRB California regulations for the clerical class code, “Employees classified under 8810 must be engaged exclusively in clerical work with no exposure to any physical hazards, no direct customer interaction in a sales environment, and no entry into areas where more hazardous operations occur, such as manufacturing, warehousing, or retail sales.”
To help mitigate the risk of rate increases and ensure fair classification for your business and the industry as a whole, adhering to the 8810 clerical code rules is essential. Misclassification can lead not only to higher premiums but also to audits, potential penalties, and added costs that could impact your overall operations.
Following WCIRB guidelines and clearly defining job roles can protect your business from these financial consequences while maintaining fair and competitive rates across the industry. For further clarification on code 8810 or any other classification questions, consult the WCIRB directly or your workers’ compensation carrier. For a free Workers Compensation rate comparison call our office at 877-428-8778 go to our website at www.insuranceinc.com.
