Workplace Health Issues

Health issues which affect an employee are often troubling.  These ususally fall into two basic categories:  (1) Work injuries; and (2) Non-work injuries or illnesses.   Situations under the first category are covered in all states by Workers Compensation laws.  Generally, if one is hurt at work one is entitled to full medical treatment at no cost whatsoever under these laws.  Additionally, one may be entitled to payment at the conclusion of treatment for permanent partial disability - if any exists - due to the injury condition.

The second type of situation is often covered by policies adopted by the employer itself for medical leave.  Also, state and federal laws may apply to one's leave rights as well.  In general, an employer must follow all of its previously published policies concerning medical leaves.  Additionally, an employer must follow all laws that apply to the rights of an employee to miss work (i.e. take leaves of absence) in order to treat the condition at issue.

We advise individuals to document fully, in writing, their need for leaves of absence and/or treatment whenever a workplace health issue arises.  Keep a copy of all such requests, etc. when issuing them to your employer.