What types of injuries are covered by workers’ compensation?

On Behalf of | Feb 2, 2025 | Workers' Compensation

Employees in various industries may wonder if they have a safety net in case they suffer a job-related injury or illness. The workers’ compensation program is the safeguard that provides injured employees with the financial resources they need at such a time of need.

However, not every injury an employee suffers in their line of work is covered under this program. Therefore, employees should familiarize themselves with the types of injuries that do qualify for workers’ compensation.

Traumatic injuries

Traumatic injuries can occur suddenly due to accidents in the workplace. Examples of workplace accidents and corresponding traumatic injuries include:

  • Slips, trips and falls
  • Cuts and lacerations from sharp objects
  • Burns from chemicals or fire
  • Fractures or broken bones due to falling objects
  • Injuries from machinery accidents

Workers who sustain these types of injuries due to a work-related accident should not hesitate to pursue workers’ compensation benefits.

Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs)

As the name suggests, repetitive stress injuries are cumulative trauma injuries that develop over time. Employees can sustain these injuries if their job description entails conducting repetitive motions or overuse of certain body parts. Common RSIs include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome from assembly line work
  • Tendonitis due to repeated lifting or awkward movements
  • Back pain from prolonged standing or heavy lifting

These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can significantly impact an employee’s ability to work.

Occupational illnesses and diseases

Some professions can expose employees to harmful chemicals, dust or biological hazards that can lead to long-term health conditions. Workers’ compensation often covers illnesses directly linked to workplace exposure, including:

  • Respiratory diseases from inhaling hazardous substances
  • Skin diseases due to chemical exposure
  • Compromised hearing from prolonged exposure to loud noise
  • Infectious diseases contracted in healthcare settings

To qualify for compensation, the worker must prove that the illness resulted from job-related conditions.

Mental health conditions

While workers’ compensation primarily covers physical injuries, work-related mental health conditions are also recognized. These may include:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from experiencing a disturbing event at work
  • Anxiety caused by extreme work-related stress
  • Psychological trauma due to workplace violence or harassment

Mental health claims can be more challenging to prove because they require substantial medical evidence.

The workers’ compensation program provides workers from various industries with essential protection following job-related injuries or illnesses. Understanding which injuries are covered can help workers navigate the claims process more effectively. Consulting a reliable legal team can also help ensure injured employees receive the benefits they deserve.

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