What is the cost of workers comp for tower climbers per $100 of payroll?

Workers compensation rates for tower climbers vary significantly by state and are expressed as a cost per $100 of payroll. For NCCI class code 3724 (Structural Ironwork - erection), base rates typically range from $15 to $45 per $100 of payroll depending on the state. Class code 7601 (Antenna Installation/Repair) is somewhat lower, typically $10 to $30 per $100 of payroll. These are base manual rates before applying your experience modification factor, scheduled credits or debits, and any state-specific surcharges. Example calculation: A tower climber earning $70,000 annually in a state with a $25 per $100 rate, with a company mod of 1.1, would generate approximately $19,250 in WC premium ($70,000 / 100 x $25 x 1.1). For a five-person climbing crew at similar wages, that is roughly $96,000 in climbing WC premium alone. This is why WC is typically the largest single component of a tower contractor's insurance program. Rates are filed state by state and adjusted annually based on industry loss experience. States with higher wage and medical cost environments (California, New York, Illinois) tend to have higher rates. Check your state's current manual rates through your broker or the applicable rating bureau.