Can You Receive Compensation For Injuries In A Work-From-Home Job?
Because of the pandemic, millions of Americans have turned to at-home work, allowing them to work from the comfort of their own office or bedroom. Yet, this change raises concerns about what people are entitled to if injured in their own house. Is it still considered a “workplace”? Read more about workers’ comp and get the answers to your questions today.
Workers’ comp applies to remote workers.
Workers’ compensation covers occupational accidents and injuries. Nonetheless, if the injury occurs within the scope of employment, the regulations apply to injured personnel performing remote work. As a result, if you telecommute from home, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation payments for a workplace injury, even if the “workplace” is your home office.
What is workers’ compassion?
Most firms require workers’ Compensation coverage for their employees. State legislation determines when business owners require workers’ compensation.
Work in a covered occupation and are involved in a job-related accident or injury. You may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, including income replacement and payment for medical and rehabilitation expenditures. The crucial point is that the damage must have occurred during employment.
Common workers’ comp claims for remote employees
Working from home may appear to be a pretty safe option. Remote workers do, however, sustain job injuries. Some of them can be:
- Mental stress
- Slips and falls
- Automobile accidents while making a delivery, going to a client, or a work meeting
- Neck and back injuries (from bad posture)
- Repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome
Personal injury can be reduced by assessing your work environment for dangers and utilizing ergonomic chairs and office equipment. Your company may be able to assist you in creating a safe working environment in your home office.
When employers are not liable for workers’ compensation
Employers are not always held accountable for workers’ compensation claims. For instance, if you inflicted harm on yourself or were drunk or high on the job. Also, several occupations are not covered by workers’ compensation. These include:
- Gig workers or independent contractors
- Domestic workers such as babysitters or nannies
- Undocumented workers
- Agricultural workers
- Seasonal workers
OSHA does not force business owners to inspect employees’ residences for work risks. They also do not hold employers accountable for the conditions of their employees’ home workplaces.
Workers’ compensation should be provided for more remote employees if injured, as more individuals work from home than ever. If this is you, consult with an attorney to ensure that you are in the best possible position to obtain any benefits you may be entitled to.