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Remote work has become increasingly popular recently, with nearly 42% of the U.S. labor force working from home full-time. Examples of professionals that my work from home are architects, IT developers, consultants, and others. While this provides many benefits, it also comes with its own set of risks.Â
As the number of home based employees increases, so do the risks associated with this setup. From physical injuries caused by poor home office design to mental health issues arising from the lack of social interaction, remote work can impact an employee’s well-being in various ways. And so, workers compensation and remote employees go hand-in-hand.Â
Moreover, with less control over their employees' workspaces, employers may find ensuring a safe work environment challenging, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. This article will explore the ins and outs of workers' compensation working from home.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 30% of all workplace injuries are caused by slips, trips, and falls. The likelihood of these types of injuries occurring has increased and this presses the significance of remote work and workers compensation coverage
Only 21% of companies surveyed provide workers compensation working from home insurance for their remote workers. This means that many remote workers may not be covered in the event of an injury.
Here are some reasons why workers comp working from home may be necessary:
Homeowners' insurance policies often don't cover injuries sustained while working from home
Workers' compensation insurance can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs in the event of a workplace injury
Without remote work and workers' compensation insurance, employers may be held liable for workplace injuries. They may face costly legal fees and penalties
It's important to note that the specific requirements for workers' compensation insurance vary by state, so it's essential to check your state's laws and regulations. However, in general, workers comp for employees working from home ensures that you are protected in case of a workplace injury.
According to a report by Global Workplace Analytics, approximately 56% of the U.S. workforce has a job compatible with remote work. This means workers compensation working from home policy can be very beneficial. Here are some who may fully benefit from workers comp for remote employees:
Telecommuters who work from home instead of an office
Freelancers or independent contractors who work from home for various clients
Small business owners who work from home
Employees who split their work time between an office and home
It is essential for remote employees working from home to fully benefit from workers compensation insurance to cover injuries that may result from excessive workloads. Because if not, the cost of treatment and lost wages will have to be shouldered by using personal money.Â
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Here are some of the ways that workers comp for remote workers can help when you're injured working from home:
Costs Covered by Workers' Compensation Insurance | Statistic |
---|---|
Medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and medication | In 2019, the average medical cost per workers' compensation claim was $28,501. |
Lost wages due to time off work for recovery | In 2019, the average workers' compensation indemnity payment per week for time off work was $930. |
Disability benefits for long-term injuries or disabilities | In 2019, the average workers' compensation indemnity payment per week for permanent disability was $528. |
Vocational rehabilitation to help you return to work | In 2019, workers' compensation vocational rehabilitation resulted in an average earnings increase of 87% for injured workers. |
In addition to covering these costs, workers compensation for remote employees insurance can also provide benefits for the most common work-from-home injuries, including:
Repetitive motion injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis can occur from typing on a computer or using a mouse for extended periods
Slip and fall injuries can occur if an employee trips over cords or other hazards in their home office. Because of this workers comp while working from home is very important
Back injuries can result from poor posture or lifting heavy objects
Eye strain which can occur from prolonged computer use
Mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression, can be caused by the challenges of working from home
Remote work and workers compensation insurance can protect injured employees while working from home. By covering medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits, this type of insurance can help injured workers get the care and support they need to recover and return to work.
Yes, in many cases, employers are required by law to cover remote employees with workers compensation insurance. Some important points to consider are:
All 50 U.S. states require employers to provide workers' compensation for remote workers. However, the specific requirements can vary depending on the state
Remote employees may still be considered "employees" under workers' compensation laws.
Injuries sustained while working from home may be covered under workers' compensation insurance if they arise out of and during employment. For example, if an employee is injured while performing a work-related task at home, such as typing on a computer or answering a phone call, the injury may be covered under working from home and workers compensation
Employers may need to ensure workers' compensation insurance covers remote employees. This may include reviewing state laws, updating insurance policies, and providing clear guidance to remote employees on reporting workplace injuries
Failing to provide workers' compensation insurance coverage to remote employees who are legally entitled to it can result in fines, penalties, and legal liability for the employer
In some cases, employers may be able to exclude certain remote employees workers compensation insurance coverage, such as independent contractors or freelancers. However, this can be a complex legal issue. Employers should seek guidance from an attorney or insurance professional before making any decisions
Employers are legally responsible for providing workers' compensation working from home coverage to their employees. By understanding the legal principles and requirements surrounding workers compensation and working from home, employers can help ensure that they comply with the law and protect their workers.