Workers' Compensation Insurance for Florist Shops: A Complete Guide

What are Class Codes and why do they matter?

Class codes are four-digit numbers that are used to reference job roles and their associated risks. These codes are assigned by the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI), which looks at injury rates for each role to assign a risk level. This is used by insurance companies to set workers' comp rates for florist shops.

Class codes for workers' compensation insurance for florist shops are important because they ensure that the business pays the appropriate amount for workers' comp while keeping their employees protected.

How are class codes determined for florist shops?

Class codes for florist shops are assigned by evaluating injury data in each state. The NCCI tracks injuries that occur on the job, such as from handling sharp tools and lifting heavy loads.

Florist shops are generally lower-risk, but injuries still can occur. In states with higher injury rates, the risk rating may increase, leading to higher premiums.
Implementing safety practices, like proper lifting techniques and using ergonomic tools, can reduce the risk and lower premiums. The NCCI regularly updates these rates based on injury data from each state.

Common Class Code for Florist Shops

Class Code 8001

This is the primary code used by most florist shops. It applies to businesses involved in selling flowers, potted plants, and related items, either on-site or through delivery services.

It covers florists performing services like designing arrangements and floral decorations, as well as installing floral arrangements at events such as weddings and parties.

Kickstand Note:

If your florist business also includes planting trees, maintaining flower beds, or other landscaping tasks, you would need to classify that work under Class Code 0042, which applies to landscaping businesses. This is important to ensure that you’re properly covered and don’t misclassify employees working on landscaping tasks.

State-Specific Class Codes for Florist Shops

Here are some examples of state-specific class codes for florist businesses in Pennsylvania and Delaware:

Class Code 0919 - Pennsylvania and Delaware

In Pennsylvania and Delaware, florist shops are classified under Class Code 0919. This includes businesses that provide floral arrangements, deliveries, and event-based decoration services like for weddings or parties.

How do Florist Class Codes affect insurance rates?

Class codes help insurance companies understand the risk involved in a business, influencing the price of workers' comp insurance. Businesses with higher-risk activities face higher rates.

For florists, the average cost for workers’ comp insurance is $2.19 per $100 of payroll. Florists may face moderate risk due to handling equipment, lifting, and working with plants that can cause injury.

Rates may differ depending on your location and the services your business offers. Rates from selected states are shown in the chart below.

Florists (Class Code 8001) Rates per State – 2025

These are base rates, but your premium will vary depending on the specific risks faced by your florist business.

Insurance carriers adjust premiums using an experience modifier (ExMod), which accounts for your claims history.

A lower ExMod (like 0.95) will result in lower premiums, while a higher ExMod (above 1) will lead to increased premiums.

Focusing on safety and reducing workplace accidents can help lower your ExMod and reduce premiums over time.

Interested in how these rates affect your florist shop’s costs? Check out our Guide to Workers' Compensation Insurance for Florists Cost for more details.

Managing Risk with a strong Safety Program

Florist businesses involve handling sharp tools, chemicals, and heavy items. By implementing a safety program, you can reduce the risk of injuries and keep premiums low.

Tips for Reducing Common Injuries in Florist Shops:

• Lifting Techniques: Train employees on proper lifting techniques when handling large floral arrangements or heavy plants to avoid back and shoulder injuries..
• Safe Use of Tools: Make sure employees use cutting tools, like shears and knives, safely to avoid cuts. Provide gloves when handling thorny plants.
• Protective Gear: Equip employees with safety gloves, eye protection, and non-slip shoes to reduce the risk of cuts, sprains, or falls.

Find the right Workers’ Comp for your Business

Looking for the right workers' comp coverage for your florist shop? Start an instant quote now or call 886-338-8823 to talk to one of our specialists. We specialize in providing workers' comp for florist businesses and can ensure you get the right protection.