If you are injured on the job or suffer from a work-related illness, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The workers’ compensation program is designed to provide benefits while you are unable to work.
Process
You must report the injury or illness to your employer as soon as possible and they may direct you to an approved healthcare provider. If it is an emergency, you should seek medical treatment first and then inform your employer.
Your employer will provide you with a form to complete to claim benefits and it will file a required report with workers’ compensation as well. You, your employer and your healthcare provider may be contacted to provide more information about the injury or illness.
Workers’ compensation will decide whether you are eligible for benefits and if you are, you will receive payments which can be temporary or permanent. Your healthcare provider will need to clear you to return to work and decide whether you will have work restrictions.
Repetitive stress injury
Repetitive stress injuries (RSI) may qualify for workers’ compensation. RSIs can happen when a worker does the same motion continuously. These injuries can affect the worker’s muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues, causing them significant pain and discomfort.
It can occur with typing, using tools, heavy lifting and work that causes the worker’s body to twist or move awkwardly. RSIs can also happen in a workstation that is not ergonomically designed and because of fatigue from a lack of rest breaks.