How to Avoid Workers’ Compensation Claims With Remote Workers
The workplace has seen many changes this year. With COVID-19 claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans, companies are having to adapt to a remote workforce. It’s no longer deemed safe for employees to come to work, so they are completing their tasks from home.
The remote workforce has tripled this year. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, only 31% of global workforce worked from home. That number has since increased to 88%.
Many employees love this setup and never want to step foot into an office ever again. They love working in their pajamas. They are saving money on clothes, gas, food and daycare. As an added bonus, these workers are also spending more time with their families.
However, many employers are concerned. They may not entirely like this new work arrangement because they can’t micromanage their employees. Another issue is that there is an increased opportunity for workers to get injured while working from home. Employers cannot prevent these accidents and the workers aren’t always thinking about their kids and pets getting in the way of their work duties.
Employers need to be prepared for workplace injuries happening in different ways, and it may or may not be the employees’ fault. The workers’ compensation system will need to make changes to protect workers.
Lawyers are gearing up for more cases as workers find out their home is not the safest place to work. An employee may hurt their knee while tripping over a pet or child’s toy. They may slip and fall while grabbing coffee. These are situations in which workers would qualify for benefits and employees need to get the benefit of doubt. While there may be concern about workers faking these accidents, the reality is that employees rarely make false claims. About half of workplace injuries involve repetitive or continuous movements, such as typing and sitting. Therefore, employers will need to educate workers about safety and expectations, since most of these workers may not even have appropriate office equipment.
Employers should start the conversation by asking about the employee’s home workstation. Buying chairs and other ergonomic equipment for employees can be a smart move. Workplace neglect can be caused by inappropriate chairs and poor posture. While an employer may not be able to make an in-person visit to the workers’ homes to assess their workstation, a worker should oblige by sending photos or videos of where they work in the home. This can help employers understand what their employees need to be safe and productive in their own homes.
Contact Us for More Information About Workers’ Compensation Benefits
With the coronavirus continuing to threaten this country, the workplace has changed. More and more employees are working from home, but that doesn’t mean that workplace accidents no longer exist.
If you have been injured in an accident while working from home, you still may be able to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Seek legal help from White Plains workers’ compensation lawyer Michael Lawrence Varon. He can guide you through the process and help you understand your options. Fill out the online form or call (914) 228-1770 for a free consultation.
Resource:
northbaybusinessjournal.com/article/article/how-to-protect-your-work-from-home-employees-from-injuries-that-can-drive-u-2/
