As the world struggled to navigate COVID-19 in the beginning of 2020, the impacts on businesses were severe. Many businesses and corporations transitioned to working from home, adjusting to a “new normal.” Multiple businesses have continued to uphold a remote or hybrid work schedule throughout 2021 and will continue with this model indefinitely.
As an employer, you may be wondering if workers compensation is still necessary if your employees work remotely either fully or partially. Below, the experienced insurance agents at Unity Insurance discuss the need for workers compensation for remote employees and why it is necessary even when employees are not physically present.
How Workers Compensation Covers Injuries For Employees Who Are Not Physically Present
If the injury resulted during the time an employee was completing a work task, it is likely covered by workers compensation. Typically, the employee must be able to describe the act of the injury, including how it occured and how they were operating in their employer’s best interests during the incident. As an employer, you do not have control over a work-from-home environment, however, courts have found that claims cannot be dismissed despite the location.
Frequent Work-From-Home Incidents
The difficulty stems from the fact that your employees’ personal environments do not adhere to the same safety regulations as your office. Two of the most common injuries that can occur in an at-home environment include:
- Cumulative Injuries
- Slip-and-alls
Some of the most frequent cumulative injuries are carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis, and back discomfort. Although most businesses have a strategy in place to manage slip-and-fall hazards, the potential risk of these incidents occurring increases when working from home. Possible slip-and-fall hazards in the home may include clutter, liquid spills or cables.
Best Practices to Avoid Work From Home Injuries
As an employer with remote employees, you cannot physically be there to enforce rules and regulations. There are some steps you can take to help prevent remote work injuries. Speak with your employers about designating a specific work space in their homes. Provide tips on ergonomic best practices, as well as workplace setup and safety precautions. Implement a policy for employee workload. This policy should indicate that, as an employer, you are not responsible for acts that are not included in the employee’s job description.
Why Workers Compensation is Essential For All Employees
Because of the uncertainty of remote employees’ personal environments, it is essential that you purchase workers compensation. If an employee is injured in their home during work hours while performing a work-related task, you will want to be covered by workers compensation.
Contact Unity Insurance Today to Learn More About Workers Compensation
The qualified and experienced business insurance specialists at Unity Insurance are here to help you purchase the right coverage based on your workplace. Contact Unity Insurance today at 800-543-1262 to learn more about Business Insurance.