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Q: Are employees covered under Workers' Compensation if they are working from home due to COVID-19 restrictions?
A: If employees are working from home (either directed by their employer, directed by other authorities and/or choose this option if available) and sustain an injury, they may be covered if the employment is a significant contributing factor to the injury. Reasonable steps should be taken to ensure workers at home work area meets health and safety requirements.
To reduce exposure to claims, employers should ensure that employees are provided with set hours of work and address break periods (preferably in writing), as well as appropriate guidance for setting up a home office ergonomically.
LGIS has a range of services and resources to assist our members with managing a remote workforce. These include:
- Working from home - a guide for employers
- A thriver's guide to maintaing positive mental health
- Working from home, getting your head in the game
Q: What happens if employers can no longer accommodate suitable duties in the workplace for employees with Workers' Compensation claims?
A: Your LGIS Injury Management Consultant is available to assist in identifying suitable duties either in the workplace or at home. If no duties are available the employee will be unable to work but will continue to receive support in their rehabilitation and recovery.
Q: If employers have to close down due to COVID-19, will employees on Workers' Compensation be covered for lost wages?
A: If an employee has an accepted Workers' Compensation claim, their wages may be covered, please contact your LGIS Claims Consultant to discuss these circumstances.
Q. If employees on Workers' Compensation choose not to attend work due to COVID-19, will they be covered for lost wages?
A: If an employee has an accepted Workers' Compensation claim, their wages may be covered, please contact your LGIS Claims Consultant to discuss these circumstances.
Q: How can employees access treatment and medical appointments if they are required to self-isolate or are not able to attend an appointment because of COVID-19?
A: Employees are required to maintain a current Certificate of Capacity and continue with their treatment. Many providers are offering telehealth services that can limit/prevent travel and exposure time. Employees should talk with their providers and/or their LGIS Injury Management Consultant regarding any concerns. Certificates of Capacity can be valid for a maximum of 28 days, unless there are special reasons for the certificate to cover a longer period.
Q: How will COVID-19 impact claim outcomes and insurance contributions?
A: It is too early to speculate how COVID-19 will impact claim outcomes or your contribution. In relation to existing claims, please contact your LGIS Claims Consultant to discuss the matter further.
More information
Further information and resources are available from WorkCover WA at https://www.workcover.wa.gov.au
Contact your LGIS WorkCare Claims or Injury Management Consultant