HR Health & Safety FAQ

Questions:

• How does the “play or pay” provision of the health care reform law work?
• What does OSHA require employers to do?
• Is every employee injury covered by workers’ compensation?
• Should our company prohibit employees from using their cell phones for business while driving?
• What are repetitive stress disorders?
• Is alcoholism a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act?
• Are there inexpensive ways to encourage healthy habits in our employees?
• What are the benefits of adopting a workplace wellness program?

Answer:

Is every employee injury covered by workers’ compensation?

Worker’s compensation covers injuries or illnesses suffered on the job. This covers more than just workplace accidents: Any work-related injury is covered, including an injury suffered while an employee is at an offsite company event, traveling for work, or otherwise doing company business. Cumulative injuries and illnesses are also covered, if they are work-related. For example, repetitive stress disorders related to work fall under workers’ compensation coverage, as do illnesses caused by exposure to workplace chemicals or radiation. For more information on workers’ comp, see Nolo’s article Workers’ Compensation Basics for Employers.