What could possibly go wrong? Wading through WorkCover.

You never know when you might need it and you might not know how to access it. Here's a brief overview of WorkCover (NSW).

It seems that every aspect of our lives is insured in some way. Rural Property NSW recently spoke with a local Workplace Rehabilitation Consultant who helped us dot point some of the information regarding WorkCover for farm businesses.

Who needs WorkCover?

Not all businesses are required by law to have WorkCover insurance.

As an employer you are exempt if you pay $7,500 or less in annual wages, don't employ an apprentice or trainee and are not a member of a group for premium purposes.

Even if you are exempt, you still have the obligation to notify WorkCover and provide assistance with injury management.

What does WorkCover cover?

WorkCover insures employees of a business (including yourself) in case of a workplace injury. We tend to think of the physical injuries (cuts, breaks, strains and sprains etc), but long term illnesses (such as dust diseases) and psychological injuries (like anxiety, depression and PTSD) are also covered.

Where do I start if I’m injured or one of my employees is injured?

Your employees should all be aware that they need to report any injury/illness (or sign of injury) to you as soon as possible.

Since 1st January 2018 EML is the insurer for all new WorkCover NSW claims. You need to notify EML of the injury/illness within 48 hours of you becoming aware of it. You can notify EML by phone or using their online form.

If you take yourself or your employee for first aid medical attention after a work-related injury, you should make the treating doctor or hospital aware that the injury is under WorkCover. They will then be able provide the specific medical certificates that you need for the WorkCover claim.

SafeWork NSW also needs to be notified if the injury or illness is very serious.

Where can I get extra help if it’s all a bit much?

Some claims are allocated a specific EML Claim Agent to help you navigate the management of the injury and return to work.

A service you can request is Workplace Rehabilitation. There are a variety of companies that provide this service and the consultant acts as a coordinator or “go between” of the claim.