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Workers' Compensation Leave - Classified Staff

Definition

All employees of the University are insured and are provided benefits under the Workers' Compensation Act in the event of a job-related injury or illness. Benefits include medical expenses, compensation for lost time, permanent disability benefits, and death benefits as applicable.

Eligibility

• All employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses.

Procedure

Notification:

• Employee notifies supervisor of injury or illness and reports to Campus Health Service at University and Cherry. In emergency situations or when away from the Tucson metropolitan area, employees should go to the nearest medical facility capable of providing the necessary services.
• Employee notifies those in attendance that the injury or illness is work related.
• Employee completes the employee's section of the University Accident Report.
• Supervisor assists the employee in obtaining medical treatment, completes the supervisor's section of the University Accident Report and distributes copies as indicated on the form.

Compensation:

• Workers' Compensation is paid for a temporary complete disability at two-thirds of the employee's average monthly wage at the time of the injury, with a maximum payment of $2,100 per month.
• Workers' Compensation pay plus vacation or sick leave pay may equal but not exceed the employee's full regular salary or wages.
• Employees who wish to receive vacation or sick leave pay in conjunction with Workers' Compensation pay may contact Risk Management for assistance.

What Happens to Your Benefits?

• During paid status, deductions will be taken from your paycheck.
• During unpaid status, you may continue your health benefits for up to six months by paying only the employee cost of any such benefits.
• Should the leave of absence be extended beyond six months, you may elect to continue insurance coverage by making arrangements with the Human Resources Leave Management Team to pay both the employee and University premiums.
• Following the starting unpaid leave date, you will receive in the mail a packet from the Human Resources Leave Management team including:
  • The form to waive, change or continue the existing benefits
  • The bill with the itemized employee benefit cost as well as payment schedule
  • Other helpful information
• Continuation of coverage after nine months is available through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA).

Forms:

• University Accident Report

Link to Policy:

• Classified Staff Policy Manual, Policy 215.0

FAQs:

Q: Whom do I contact to file a Workers' Compensation Claim?

A: Risk Management & Safety, Workers' Compensation at 621-3626.

Q: Are employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses eligible for Short-Term Disability benefits?

A: No. If the injury or illness is job related, the employee is covered by the Workers' Compensation insurance.

Q: Does the Workers' Compensation qualifying leave fall under the Family Medical Leave Act?

A: Yes, if the employee is eligible for and entitled to Family and Medical Leave, the time away from work up to twelve work weeks will be credited to the employee's Family and Medical Leave entitlement.