Yes, if an employee contracts COVID-19 after being in close contact with a party infected with the virus during employment, employers may be responsible. Below are some examples where employees may be eligible for workers' compensation coverage:
- Employees who contract the virus during a business trip to a location where they are directly exposed to the illness/disease.
- Employees who contract the virus at work by an coworker that tested positive for COVID-19.
- Employees who contract the virus after being required to work in a location with infected parties.
How to Protect Your Workers from Illness/Disease
The following actions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. Visit the CDC website for more information.
- Ensure Sick Employees Stay Home
- Be Flexible with Sick Leave Policies
- Educate Employees
- Keep Tissues, Hand Sanitizer, Soap and Water Stocked
- Perform Routine Cleaning
- Take Steps Before Employees Travel