Occupational classes

A method of rating whereby the usual premium is based on the insured’s occupation. This is underwriting by occupation, and is used in personal accident insurance where as many as five occupational classes segment risks according to the degree of hazard present in the occupation. Extra-hazardous occupation calls for special consideration. Occupational underwriting lies at the heart of many insurance schemes, e.g. motor insurance for civil servants.

Occupational deafness

An industrial disease caused by noise exposure. It is an insidious disease affecting the inner ear. Many workers are exposed to this risk and years may pass before they become aware of the situation. The disease’s long-tail potential has serious implications for employers’ liability insurers. The disease is incurable but preventable and has attracted attention from the legislators through the Noise at Work Regulations 1998.

Occupational Disease

An injury arising out of employment and due to causes and characteristics of, and peculiar to, the particular trade, occupation, process or employment, and excluding all ordinary diseases to which the general public is exposed. Examples include psittacosis, mercury poisoning, dust collection in the lungs, and the like.

Occupational Hazards

Occupations which expose the insured to greater than normal physical danger by the very nature of the work in which the insured is engaged, and the varying periods of absence from the occupation, due to the disability, that can be expected.
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Occupations which expose the insured to greater than normal physical danger by the very nature of the work, in which the insured is engaged, and the varying period of absence from the occupation, due to the disability, that can be expected.

Occupational pension scheme

A scheme organised by an employer or on behalf of a group of employers to provide pension benefits for one or more employees on leaving service or on death or retirement. The scheme is run by trustees and can be contributory or non-contributory. Schemes are either defined benefit schemes or defined contribution scheme. See EXEMPT APPROVED SCHEMES.