Three things to know about contracting COVID in the workplace

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted us all in various ways. For those who contract the virus at work there are entitlements under WorkCover available to you.

We are by your side to help you receive the entitlements you deserve.

If you contract COVID-19 in the workplace while undertaking your ordinary duties, or during an authorised recess, there are three things you should know.

1. You might be eligible for compensation

If you contract COVID-19 at work, you’re entitled to benefits under WorkCover. So, the best place to start is by lodging a claim.

Compensation for workplace injuries covers things like lost wages or medical expenses, and potentially a lump sum compensation and damages claim for pain and suffering and/or loss of earnings if you experience ongoing symptoms such as ‘long COVID’.

2. You need to record the details

Like any other workplace injury, you are required to notify your employer. Make sure you do this in writing. It’s really important to include specific details.

You should include:

• the suspected date of infection
• where you were working that day
• what tasks you performed
• initial symptoms
• the date you informed your workplace
• how many dates you were away from work (when known).
   

3. You can register your COVID-19 infection with us to assist you with making a claim in the future

We understand the devastating impact a workplace injury can have on your life. And with the long-term impacts of COVID-19 still relatively unknown, it’s important to take care of your future.

For this reason, we have set up a national COVID register that allows you to quickly and easily record the details of your infection. This is not the same as making a claim, but allows you to capture the key details that will be crucial if you decide to make a claim in the future if your COVID-19 symptoms persist.