There are numerous implications that injuries have on employees, such as financial issues that in some cases may create emotional strain on the employee and their family.
If the employee was injured at work, then they are eligible for a worker's compensation benefits. In the case of a person that was not injured in their workplace, then there are other benefits that they will need to make use of such as sick leave days, during this time and when they return to work.
It is for this reason that the Compensation Fund has made a plea to employers to play their part in facilitating the return of injured workers to employment.
In a statement, the Compensation’s Fund Director for the Vocational Rehabilitation Programme, Nthabiseng Magonono has shared:
The employers must ensure that they exploit all alternatives so that injured workers with disablement are reintegrated post their injuries.
According to Magonono, this includes placement opportunities and options for income-generation initiatives. Employers are expected to implement the Return-to-Work Policy and they are also advised to also take into consideration the need to review their employee wellness policies as well as the human approach.
The Return-to-Work Policy was introduced five years ago as a means to support injured workers to facilitate their return to the workplace.
In terms of the Employee Rehabilitation from the Department of Employment and Labour, initiatives could also include resolving and upskilling as well as business development support.
Injured workers do not only face challenges that impact on their functioning but in some instances, they get caught up in a perpetual cycle of poverty due to loss of income.
What is the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act?
Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, No. 130 of 1993 provides for compensation for disablement caused by occupational injuries and diseases.
The Act also makes provision for a minimum assessment to ensure the assessment is not less than the administration costs incurred.
