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Every profession in the world, even office work, comes with specific risks. Employers must do what they can to mitigate those risks so that workers don’t face unnecessary injuries. Many things can happen to do this that don’t cost a lot of money. But, unfortunately, some employers don’t have a proper safety culture in the workplace.
To be clear, the onus is on the employer to make sure employees have what they need to be safe. This includes equipment, as well as training. No employer should ever assume that a worker knows what they should do. Instead, the company must provide initial training when hiring someone and periodic continuing education programs.
When Does Workers’ Compensation Cover a Worker?
Instead of thinking about the types of workplace injuries covered by workers’ compensation, you have to consider how the injury occurred. This coverage applies to any injury that a worker suffers while they’re doing their job duties. It even extends to job-related functions, such as client dinners, as long as the employer requires the employee to attend the event in a work-related capacity.
One misconception that some people have is that workers’ compensation only covers a catastrophic event. The truth is that workers’ compensation coverage extends to any work-related injuries. Repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, are also covered because they are the result of work-related duty.
Some of the benefits that people receive for workers’ compensation include payment of their medical bills and partial wage replacement. In some cases, vocational rehabilitation and other benefits might also be extended. You should receive documentation that alerts you to the benefits you’re due in your case.
What Should Workers Do if They’re Injured at Work?
Workers shouldn’t ever ignore pain or other signs of an injury. Instead, they need to take swift action before the injury is allowed to get any worse. They should immediately contact their supervisor or a designated person to file a report about the injury. This notification needs to happen swiftly once an employee realizes they’re injured.
Any worker who suffers an injury should ensure that they get medical care. Workers’ compensation should cover this, as well as certain other damages related to the injury. Sometimes, workers have to fight for the benefits they’re due. Working with someone who’s familiar with these cases can help you learn about the options you have for doing this.
Many actions related to workers’ compensation have very strict time limits. If you’re in the midst of a battle for your benefits, make sure you read everything that you receive related to the case. Your attorney can help you to get things done on time, but you have to be forthcoming with them about what type of notices you receive.
Workers shouldn’t ever bear the financial burden that comes with an on-the-job injury. Protecting your rights and working on getting the benefits you’re due is important. Working with an attorney who can help you with this can take some pressure off you so you can focus on healing.
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