[Faculty Handbook Category #1]
We provide a comprehensive workers’ compensation insurance program at no cost to our employees. This program covers any injury or illness sustained in the course of employment that requires medical, surgical, or hospital treatment. Subject to applicable legal requirements, workers’ compensation insurance may also provide wage replacement benefits after a short waiting period.
If you experience or witness a work-related injury or illness, you must tell your supervisor immediately even if the injury or illness seems minor. You have a right to report all work-related injuries and illnesses. Reporting the injury or illness timely will enable an eligible employee to qualify for coverage under our workers’ compensation insurance program as quickly as possible. You cannot use paid time off, vacation, sick time for this leave. We will not discriminate or retaliate against you for reporting work-related injuries or illnesses. However, failure to promptly report workplace injuries or illnesses may result in discipline, up to and including termination of employment.
In general, we will make reasonable efforts to make accommodations and find light duty work if you suffer a work injury. Where such work is possible, we will make sure the work provided stays within the restrictions established by your doctor. Similarly, if you return to a light duty position, you must agree to work within those restrictions, and are forbidden from working beyond them. If you turn down a light-duty or alternative work position, you may lose your ability to receive wage replacement from our workers’ compensation insurance company.
You will not be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits for injuries that occur during your voluntary participation in any off-duty recreational, social, or athletic activity that we sponsor.