Which of the following is a direct cost of a workplace accident?

The correct answer is medical costs. Direct costs are expenses that can be directly attributed to a specific event or incident, such as a workplace accident. Medical costs arise from the immediate need for medical treatment for employees who are injured in an accident. This can include expenses like hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and other medical care that are directly related to the injury sustained during the workplace incident.

Understanding direct costs is crucial for businesses as they can significantly affect the overall financial impact of an accident. Identifying these costs helps in assessing the total cost of workplace accidents and in making informed decisions about safety measures and protocols.

In contrast, the other options represent indirect or secondary costs associated with workplace accidents. While salaries for replacement staff and increased insurance rates may result from an accident, they do not involve immediate expenses incurred due to the incident itself. Similarly, legal consultation fees, while important, are also considered indirect costs as they pertain to potential litigation or regulatory compliance following an accident rather than the cost of care for the injured employee.