Workers’ Comp Insurance for Dairy Farms: What Employers Must Know
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Dairy farming is one of the most labour‑intensive agricultural industries. Milkers, feeders, equipment operators, mechanics, and herdsmen work around heavy machinery, unpredictable cattle, uneven surfaces, and fast‑paced environments. Because injury risks are higher on dairy farms than many other farm operations, workers’ compensation insurance is essential, not only for legal compliance but also for financial protection. If you employ workers on your dairy, here’s what you must know before requesting a dairy farm or cattle farm insurance quote.
1) Workers’ Comp Is Required in Most States
Nearly every state requires employers to carry workers’ compensation when they have farm labourers. A few states exempt very small farms or family labour, but most dairy operations fall under mandatory coverage because of:
Larger staff size
Heavy equipment exposure
Daily cattle handling
Workers’ comp provides wage replacement, medical coverage, and rehabilitation benefits to injured workers, while shielding the employer from lawsuit exposure.
2) The Dairy Workplace Has Unique Injury Risks
Underwriters view dairy farms as higher risk than crop farms due to increased employee interaction with:
Large livestock (kicks, crushing, entanglement)
Milking parlours (slips, shoulder injuries, repetitive strain)
Tractors, loaders, and skid steers
Manure systems, pits, pumps, and chemicals
Long shifts and physically demanding labour
Because of these exposures, workers’ comp is often one of the largest cost components within a dairy farm insurance program.
3) Accurate Job Classifications Are Critical
Premium is calculated based on classification codes and payroll. Misclassification can lead to:
Overpaying premiums
Under-insuring risk
Audit penalties at year‑end
Typical dairy classifications include:
Milkers
Herdsmen
Equipment operators
Feeders
Mechanics
Supervisors
Make sure each employee is placed in the correct category for accurate pricing and compliance.
4) Safety Programs Help Control Premium Costs
Dairies with documented safety practices often receive better pricing on workers’ comp. Best practices include:
Cattle‑handling training (low‑stress livestock handling)
Slip‑resistant flooring & drainage
Night lighting for parlour and lot areas
PTO & machinery guard inspections
Chemical handling protocols
Mandatory PPE for specific tasks
Regular team safety meetings and documented training
Better safety = fewer claims = lower long‑term premium.
5) Claims Must Be Reported Quickly
Fast reporting reduces claim severity and may prevent disputes. Keep clear procedures for:
Reporting injuries
Emergency response
Return‑to‑work plans
Modified/light‑duty roles
This reduces downtime for both the employee and the dairy.
Protect Your Dairy Farm With the Right Workers’ Comp Coverage
Not every insurer understands dairy risks, livestock behaviour, or the physical demands placed on workers. Wexford Insurance partners with top‑rated carriers that specialise in dairy and cattle farm insurance, helping owners choose the right workers’ comp classifications, limits, and policy structure, while keeping premiums reasonable.
👉 Request your Dairy Farm Insurance quote from Wexford Insurance today and ensure your workers, herd, and operation are fully protected.
