What Type of Injuries are Covered by Workers Comp?

Injuries on the job happen. That's when workers' compensation laws and insurance become vitally important. But what counts as a workers' comp injury?

It depends. But as an employer, you should become familiarized with what is covered.

Typically, workers' comp laws cover a variety of different injuries that happen at work. The law is meant to ensure injured employees receive compensation if something does occur.

Remember, workers' compensation laws vary depending on what state you are in. And it will also be different depending on what type of business you run.

In short, workers can typically claim coverage for injuries including:

• Pre-existing conditions that are aggravated by current work. For example, if your employee has a back problem that is only hurt more because of their workload.
• Diseases stemming from exposure in the workplace. If your employees constantly work with chemicals or other irritants, they can be covered if they develop related illnesses.
• Injuries incurred on-the-job. This includes some injuries caused during breaks or lunch hours. It also includes injuries sustained by using company facilities.
• Mental and physical strain and stress. Some states will also include injuries caused by stress and harassment by work supervisors.

For more information about what qualifies as a worker's comp injury, you may want to consult an employment attorney. They will likely be able to answer your worker's comp law questions.

Related Resources:

• Workers' Compensation In-Depth (FindLaw)
• Workers' Compensation for Employers (FindLaw)
• Workers' Compensation: How to Handle an Injured Worker (FindLaw's Free Enterprise)
• Small Business Workers' Compensation: 5 Things to Know (FindLaw's Free Enterprise)