Structured and supervised program of physical conditioning, exercise, strengthening, and functional task performance with real and simulated job activities for workers recovering from industrial injuries. Its purpose is to return people back to work and prevent future injury risk.
Insurance Encyclopedia
Work restrictions
In a workers’ compensation case, temporary or permanent prohibitions of certain activities, body positions, motions, exposure and time limitations that have been placed on the injured worker by the treating or consulting physician to expedite recovery from the injury or on a permanent basis because of the effects of the injury. Restrictions can be actual because of inability to perform the activity or prophylactic to prevent further injury. Permanent work restrictions are rated disabilities.
Work-related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULDS)
A condition or disorder relating to many areas of the body, including muscles, tendons, joints, etc. Areas affected include the neck, shoulders, arms, elbows, hands and fingers. Tenosynovitis and carpal tunnel syndrome are particular sources of employers’ liability claims. WRULDs should be considered as part of the risk assessment carried out under MHSW.
Worker
See: wage earner .
Workers Compensation
A system established under state law that provides payments, without regard to fault, to employees injured in the course and scope of their employment.
workers compensation (WC) insurance
Formal legal contract that insures an employee against on-the-job injury or illness and provides death benefits to dependents. It pays for medical treatment, physical rehabilitation, permanent disability, and through temporary disability benefits covers lost wages while off the job. Federal and state regulations require that the employer have this coverage and pay the premiums for his or her employees.
workers compensation (WC) program
Federal and state government-mandated system that requires employers to furnish insurance and cash benefits for employees who suffer work-related injuries, illnesses, or death. Employers pay the insurance premiums. workers’ compensation insurance does not usually cover agricultural employees, interstate railroad employees, employees of small businesses, domestic employees, casual employees, and self-employed individuals. Also called workers’ comp .
Workers compensation (Workers Compensation)
Benefits paid to an employee by an employer who is injured, disabled, or killed while working. Under state law, these benefits must be paid by the employer regardless of liability. This term can also be used to refer to insurance taken by an employer who will pay these benefits on the employer’s behalf.
Workers compensation agency
Federal entity that administers a federal or state workers’ compensation law such as workers’ compensation commission, industrial commissions, industrial boards, workers’ compensation insurance funds, workers’ compensation courts, and U.S. Department of Labor. Also referred to as state compensation board or commission .
Workers Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB)
Board that handles workers’ compensation liens and appeals.