PA Workers Comp Calculator
Pennsylvania restaurants face unique workers' comp challenges: slips on wet kitchen floors, burns from hot equipment, knife injuries, and the physical demands of long hours on your feet. Understanding your class code and shopping the right carriers can make a significant difference in your premium.
Restaurant workers in Pennsylvania have above-average injury rates driven by the fast-paced, physical kitchen environment. Slip-and-fall injuries are the leading cause of restaurant workers' comp claims, followed by cuts, burns, and strain injuries from repetitive tasks.
2026 Workers' Comp Rates for Restaurants in Pennsylvania
Based on 2026 PCRB loss costs · LCM 1.50 · EMR 1.00 · Includes $350 expense constant + PA 2.18% assessment. Actual carrier premiums will vary.
| Class Code | Description | Loss Cost | $50K Payroll | $100K Payroll | $250K Payroll | $500K Payroll |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 721 | RAILROAD OPERATION, N.O.C. | $3.401 | $2,964 | $5,570 | $13,389 | $26,421 |
| 820 | AUTOMOBILE AUCTION | $1.346 | $1,389 | $2,421 | $5,515 | $10,673 |
* LCM 1.50 · EMR 1.00 · Expense constant $350 · PA Act 57 assessment 2.18%
Common Workers' Comp Risks in Restaurants
- ▸ Slips and falls on wet kitchen floors
- ▸ Burns from hot surfaces, liquids, and grease
- ▸ Cuts from knives and slicers
- ▸ Strains from lifting and repetitive motion
- ▸ Back injuries from prolonged standing
- ▸ Heat stress in kitchen environments
How to Reduce Your Workers' Comp Cost in Restaurants
Industry-specific strategies that lower your premium — not generic advice.
- Install non-slip mats throughout the kitchen and require non-slip footwear
- Use cut-resistant gloves when using slicers, mandolines, and knives
- Implement a grease management program to keep floors clean
- Train staff on proper lifting techniques for heavy pots and supply deliveries
- Separate serving staff from kitchen staff payroll — codes and rates may differ
- Separate clerical/managerial payroll to Code 953 where applicable
Calculate Your Restaurants Workers' Comp Premium
Enter your actual payroll, class code, LCM, and EMR for a personalized 2026 estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions — Restaurants Workers' Comp in PA
What class code do restaurants use in Pennsylvania?
Most sit-down restaurants use Code 701 (Restaurant - full service). Fast food and counter-service operations typically use Code 702. Bars and taverns may use different codes. The exact code depends on your operation type — consult a PA broker if you're unsure.
Are tipped employees included in payroll for workers' comp?
Generally, Pennsylvania workers' comp includes reported tips in the payroll calculation. Employer-reported (distributed) tips are included; customer-paid cash tips that employees don't report may not be. Verify with your carrier how tips are handled in your specific policy.