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2585SC

Meat Packing

South Carolina Workers' Compensation Class Code 2585 • NCCI • Effective 2025-01-01

Current Rate

$4.40

per $100 of payroll

NCCI 2025-01-01

What is Class Code 2585?

Class code 2585 covers meat packing operations, including the slaughter and processing of livestock into meat products. This is one of the higher-risk food processing classifications due to the use of sharp cutting tools, wet and slippery floors, cold temperatures, and the physical demands of the work. Workers face risks from knife cuts, repetitive motion injuries, slips, and cold-related injuries.

Who is Covered Under This Code?

Meat cutters, slaughterhouse workers, processing line workers, and packaging employees.

Tips to Reduce Your Premium

  • Cut-resistant gloves and chain mail are essential PPE for knife-using workers
  • Slip-and-fall prevention on wet, bloody floors is a major claims driver
  • Ergonomic programs reduce repetitive motion injuries in processing line work
  • Cold temperature exposure requires appropriate PPE

Real-World Examples

This class code applies to businesses like a 50-employee meat packing plant in Ocala that processes beef and pork for distribution to grocery stores, or a smaller, family-owned butcher shop in Orlando that handles custom cuts and sausage production. It also covers large-scale poultry processing facilities found in rural Florida, preparing chicken for regional and national markets.

Common Claim Scenarios

Common claims involve lacerations and amputations from sharp knives and processing machinery, often leading to severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Musculoskeletal disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome and back strains are also frequent due to repetitive motions and heavy lifting, often resulting in lost work time. Slips and falls on wet or greasy floors are common, leading to fractures or concussions.

Safety & Loss Prevention

  • Implement and strictly enforce lockout/tagout procedures for all processing machinery during maintenance and cleaning to prevent accidental startups.
  • Provide and mandate the use of cut-resistant gloves, aprons, and slip-resistant footwear for all employees working with knives or in wet environments.
  • Utilize ergonomic lifting aids and encourage proper lifting techniques to reduce the risk of back injuries and musculoskeletal disorders.
  • Regularly clean and sanitize work areas to maintain dry, slip-free floors and prevent the spread of pathogens.

Rate Comparison by State

StateDescriptionRate / $100
SCMeat Packing$4.40Current
FLMeat Packing$4.80View
MIMeat Packing$4.50View
ILMeat Packing$4.20View
TXMeat Packing$3.90View
NCMeat Packing$3.80View

Frequently Asked Questions

What is workers comp class code 2585?

Class code 2585 covers meat packing operations, including the slaughter and processing of livestock into meat products. This is one of the higher-risk food processing classifications due to the use of sharp cutting tools, wet and slippery floors, cold temperatures, and the physical demands of the work. Workers face risks from knife cuts, repetitive motion injuries, slips, and cold-related injuries.

What is the workers comp rate for class code 2585 in South Carolina?

The current workers' compensation rate for class code 2585 in South Carolina is $4.40 per $100 of payroll, as set by NCCI effective 2025-01-01. Your actual premium will also depend on your experience modification factor (EMR) and the carrier you choose.

Who is covered under class code 2585?

Meat cutters, slaughterhouse workers, processing line workers, and packaging employees.

How can I reduce my workers comp premium for class code 2585 in South Carolina?

Cut-resistant gloves and chain mail are essential PPE for knife-using workers Slip-and-fall prevention on wet, bloody floors is a major claims driver Ergonomic programs reduce repetitive motion injuries in processing line work Cold temperature exposure requires appropriate PPE

Do I need workers comp insurance for employees classified under code 2585 in South Carolina?

Yes. South Carolina requires most employers to carry workers' compensation insurance for their employees. Class code 2585 employees must be covered. Penalties for non-compliance in South Carolina can be severe, including stop-work orders and fines. Contact Bright Coast Insurance at (239) 323-0785 for a fast, competitive quote.

Rates shown are advisory loss costs or assigned risk rates as of the effective date listed. Your actual workers' compensation premium will depend on your specific payroll, experience modification factor (EMR), carrier selection, and other underwriting factors. Contact Bright Coast Insurance for an accurate quote tailored to your business.

Premium Estimator

Enter your annual payroll to estimate your base premium for code 2585 in SC.

Quick Facts

Class Code
2585
State
South Carolina
Rate per $100
$4.40
Rating Org
NCCI
Effective
2025-01-01

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