Workers’ Compensation Basics
What Employers need to know about the workers’ compensation system
Employers are required to purchase insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries and illnesses. The system strikes a compromise between employers and employees. Employees get benefits regardless of who was at fault. In return, employers get protection from lawsuits by injured employees seeking money damages for pain and suffering or mental anguish.
What does it cover?
- Work-related injury or illness
- If they are injured while traveling on business, running a work-related errand, or attending a business-related social function
- Injuries and illnesses can range from sudden (ie. Falling off a scaffolding) to long term (ie. computer related repetitive stress injuries (RSIs)/carpal tunnel syndrome/back problems) or ones that result from exposure to workplace chemicals, air pollution, or radiation; resulting in heart conditions, lung disease, or digestive problems)
What does it not cover?
- Injuries caused by intoxication or drugs
- Self-inflicted injuries
- Injuries from a fight started by an employee
- Injuries resulting from horseplay or violation of company policy
- Felony-related injuries
- Injuries suffered off the job
- Injuries claimed after an employee has been terminated or laid off
- Injuries to an independent contractor
What are the benefits of coverage?
- Replacement income when employees are off work
- Payments for medical expenses, including doctors’ visits, surgeries, and prescription drugs
- Vocational rehabilitation benefits – including on-the-job training, education, or job placement assistance (depending on the state where the employee is injured)
When can an employee sue an employer for personal injury?
Employers aren’t protected from all employee lawsuits related to injuries. In Oregon, if the employee is injured because of the employer’s intentional or reckless actions, the employee can bypass the workers’ compensation system to sue the employer in court for a full range of money damages, including punitive (intended to punish the employer) and pain and suffering (mental anguish, physical discomfort, or overall loss of enjoyment of life caused by the injuries).
What are an Employer’s Responsibilities for Workers’ Compensation?
- Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance
- Post Notices and advise employees of their legal rights
- Provide claim forms to injured employers
Carrier Risk Management Services
SAIF -
Contact your insurance company’s risk management services
State of Oregon
Workers’ Compensation Division
888-877-5670 (toll-free)
503-947-7815
Business Identification Number
503-947-7589
Employer coverage indexing
503-947-7814
– Search workers’ compensation