What is an occupational disease?
Occupational diseases are those that arise during the course of employment due to the nature of work, activities undertaken by a worker, working conditions, or the risk factors (or hazardous substances) associated with a certain work environment. Such diseases are found more in exposed workers than in the general public. Physical, chemical, biological risks or a combination of these can lead to occupational illnesses.
Workers’ compensation for occupational disease
In accordance with the Employee’s Compensation Act 1923, if a worker develops an occupational illness during the employment period, you must compensate them duly. The occupational disease cover helps affected workers to avail treatment without worrying about medical expenses and makes up for income loss during recovery. It also protects the employee financially in case of partial or complete disability.
When are employers liable to pay workers’ compensation?
Listed here are some of the occupational diseases for which you need to pay workers’ compensation, as per Schedule III’s parts A, B, and C in the Employee’s Compensation Act 1923:
Part A (diseases caused by)
- Working in a compressed air environment
- Parasites and infectious agents in a contamination-prone environment
- Lead or toxic compounds of the same
- Organo-phosphorus compounds or nitrous fumes
Part B (diseases caused by)
- Phosphorus, mercury, benzene, arsenic, cadmium, fluorine, or their toxic compounds
- Tar, mineral oil, bitumen, anthracene or their compounds or residues (skin cancer)
- Radioactive substances, infrared radiation
- Asphyxiating elements like carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide
- Alcohols, ketones, nitroglycerine
- Asbestos (lung cancer)
Part C
- Bagassosis
- Bronchopulmonary ailments due to hard metals, cotton, sisal dust, flax hemp
- Silicosis
- Allergic alveolitis due to inhalation of organic dust
Conclusion
By now, you have a fair understanding of occupational diseases, the role of workers’ compensation, and when you have to pay the same. Hence, as an employer, besides focusing on workplace safety, availing a workmen compensation policy with add-on cover for occupational ailments is a wise move. This way, you can protect affected workers financially, offer them peace of mind and earn their trust, prevent legal disputes, and secure your reputation. Effective recovery of ailing workers can also improve business efficiency and continuity.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.