Remote work has gained popularity in recent years. With this development, more and more legal questions are coming up regarding what happens when an employer is hurt while working from home.
On the face of it, workers’ compensation is designed to provide financial restitution to employees who are hurt at work or while advancing employers’ interests. But what happens if you are hurt while working from home?
Understanding the scope of workers’ comp
To qualify for workers’ compensation in Minnesota, the following elements must be satisfied:
- There must be an employer-employee relationship
- The employee must sustain a work-related injury or illness
- The injury or illness must happen within the scope of your employment
In other words, your injury or illness should be treated in the same manner as injuries or illnesses that happen in the traditional workplace.
Common work-related injuries that you can suffer while working at home
While there isn’t a strict list of injuries covered by workers’ comp insurance, here are common injuries you are likely to suffer at home while advancing your employer’s interests:
- Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI): These injuries develop when you perform monotonous tasks like typing. They can also happen when you use non-ergonomic furniture that sets you in an uncomfortable position. Examples of RSI include tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and computer neck.
- Fatigue: If you develop fatigue or stress due to overwork or other job-related duties, you may be eligible for compensation for the resulting ailment.
Understanding the applicable workers’ compensation laws can help you protect your rights and fight for the benefits you deserve if you are hurt while working remotely.