What role do safety programs play in workers' compensation?

Safety programs play a crucial role in workers' compensation by helping to reduce the number of workplace injuries. When a business implements effective safety programs, it focuses on identifying and mitigating hazards, providing employee training, improving workplace conditions, and promoting a culture of safety among employees. By proactively addressing these issues, employers can minimize the risk of accidents and injuries occurring on the job.

A decrease in workplace injuries is beneficial not only for the health and safety of employees but also for employers, as it can lead to lower insurance premiums and reduced costs associated with claims, such as lost productivity and workers' compensation payouts. Therefore, safety programs directly contribute to the overall effectiveness and sustainability of workers' compensation systems by lowering the incidence of claims filed, resulting in a healthier work environment and potential financial savings for employers.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary functions and benefits of safety programs in relation to workers' compensation. Legal representation for injured workers, determining compensation amounts, and claiming irrelevance to workers' compensation do not align with the preventive nature and positive outcomes that safety programs are designed to achieve.