Running a business in Colorado comes with many expenses, but workers’ compensation premiums don’t have to be one of your largest. By participating in Colorado’s Cost Containment Certification Program, employers can take proactive steps to improve workplace safety while reducing workers’ compensation costs. With the help of our carrier partner Pinnacol Assurance, small and mid-sized businesses can access expert support through Pinnacol’s Cost Containment Concierge program—a guided, hands-on approach to certification that can lead to significant savings.
What Is Cost Containment Certification?
The Colorado Cost Containment Certification Program, managed by the Division of Workers’ Compensation, is designed to encourage businesses to establish effective workplace safety programs. Certification requires one year of documented safety practices, policies, and training. Once certified, employers may be eligible for up to a 5% premium discount on their workers’ compensation insurance .
Benefits of Cost Containment for Colorado Employers
1. Premium Savings
Employers who achieve certification can save up to 5% on their Pinnacol Assurance premium right away. Over time, many certified businesses see even greater financial benefits by lowering claims costs through safer workplaces.
2. Improved Safety and Reduced Claims
Certified Pinnacol customers experience an average 51% improvement in their loss ratio in the years following certification (based on a 3-year evaluation) . This means fewer injuries, lower claims, and better protection for employees.
3. Dedicated Support from Pinnacol
Pinnacol insures 79% of all Premium Cost Containment employers in Colorado, giving them unmatched expertise in the process. Their Cost Containment Concierge program connects you with a Safety Consultant who walks you through every step of the certification process, reviews your policies, and ensures you’re ready to apply with confidence.
4. Long-Term Success
It’s not just about certification—it’s about maintaining it. Pinnacol’s renewal assistance helps 83% of certified customers keep their Cost Containment Certification year after year . That means sustained savings and ongoing workplace safety improvements.
What the Cost Containment Program Involves
To qualify for certification, Colorado businesses must demonstrate at least one year of documented safety practices, including:
- A formal, companywide safety policy endorsed by management.
- A designated Safety Coordinator or Committee with clear responsibilities.
- Documented safety rules and consistent enforcement.
- New-hire safety orientations and ongoing training.
- Designated medical providers for workplace injuries.
- Written claims management procedures, including accident investigations and modified duty programs.
These steps not only help reduce injuries but also demonstrate your commitment to employee well-being—a win for both your people and your business.
Why Work with Pinnacol Assurance through Conexus?
Pinnacol is Colorado’s largest workers’ comp carrier and a trusted partner for thousands of employers. Their Cost Containment Concierge program makes the certification process approachable by providing:
- One-on-one guidance with Safety Consultants.
- Templates and workbooks to simplify documentation.
- Policy reviews before submission to the Cost Containment Board.
- Continued support to maintain certification after approval.
As one Pinnacol customer put it:
“The support from our Pinnacol Safety Consultant was invaluable. They guided us through every step, and the savings have made a real difference to our bottom line.”
Key Takeaway for Colorado Employers
For business owners, cost containment isn’t just about cutting expenses—it’s about building a safer, stronger company. With Pinnacol’s proven track record and guided support, certification is more achievable than ever.
Explore the Cost Containment Concierge Program
💡 Ready to take control of your workers’ comp costs? Partner with Conexus Insurance Partners and Pinnacol Assurance to explore the Cost Containment Concierge program. Our team will connect you with the tools, templates, and expert guidance you need to get certified and start saving.
👉 Contact us today to learn how cost containment can benefit your Colorado business.