We are certainly going through unprecedent difficult times that have brought changes to the way we operate in almost every aspect of our lives. Businesses across multiple industries have been financially impacted and whilst the COVID-19 crisis continues to unfold, business have had to make significant operational changes in order to protect their employees and comply with the constantly changing government restrictions and regulations.
SIRA reported on Tuesday 28 April 2020 that a total of 205 COVID-19 related workers compensation claims and notifications of injury had been lodged in NSW. Workers compensation laws require that in claims for disease injuries, employment must be the main contributing factor to the worker contracting the virus (or a substantial contributing factor for exempt workers).
In the current COVID-19 outbreak, the source of infection has to be traced back to the workplace/employment. Insurers may accept provisional liability and are required to investigate each claim individually. SIRA is closely supervising Insurers throughout the process.
SIRA will begin consultation this week to develop a new COVID-19 related Standard of Practice that will set expectations for insurers handling of COVID-19 related workers compensation claims in order to provide adequate support for both employers and affected workers with claims of this nature.
For support or advice, please contact our workers compensation specialists for assistance.