Staying up to date on the latest trends that have occurred during the past few months is vital for the success of all businesses and professions. 2021 brought upon us an unprecedented reaction to the coronavirus, challenging employers to make a wide range of organizational adjustments.
From introducing remote working arrangements and changing employee roles, to laying people off or halting business temporarily, various organizations have had to figure out how any of these implemented adjustments impact their workers’ compensation policies.
Employers must also pay attention to workers’ compensation claims arising due to COVID-related illnesses or restrictions. These claims must be evaluated case-by-case because each claim is different. Still, coverage will typically kick in if BOTH of the following are true:
- The illness is contracted on the job during the course of employment.
- The illness is caused by job-specific conditions and isn’t a common disease (like the flu) to which the general public is exposed.
When it comes to actual compensation, employers will need to look at what job or task the employee was working on that exposed them to the virus. Besides this, each state in the United States has different laws and regulations regarding compensation for COVID-19. Your condition might give you general guidance on dealing with workplace illnesses and contagious diseases. Another state may offer specific instruction on how to handle workers’ comp claims.
Many states have created new rules on COVID-19 presumptions. Other states have enacted laws that expand workers’ compensation coverage for certain employees (including healthcare workers and first responders).
Whatever the case, be sure to keep track of your state’s developments and legislation regarding COVID-19 and workers’ compensation claims.
The best way for any organization to handle workers’ compensation claims is to reduce them. By following federal and state mandates regarding COVID protocols, you will likely protect yourself and your staff from the risk of exposure to many contagious diseases.
Carriage Trade offers insight and advice on buying adequate workers’ compensation coverage for your organization. Contact us today or speak to your preferred insurance professional to learn more about how your workers’ compensation coverage holds up concerning COVID-19.