Work Related Injury/Illness
OSHA defines a work-related injury or illness if an event or exposure in the work environment either caused or contributed to the resulting condition or significantly aggravated a pre-existing injury or illness. Work-relatedness is presumed for injuries and illnesses resulting from events or exposures occurring in the work environment, unless it meets specific exceptions under OSHA Regulations 1904.5. For more information, please contact Human Resources.
A work environment is defined by OSHA as the establishment and other locations where one or more employees are working or are present as a condition of their employment. The work environment includes but not limited to physical locations, equipment or materials used by an individual during the course of their work.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions or Injuries - An individual experiencing signs and symptoms related to a pre existing medical condition or injury are not considered work related unless the root cause determines there were significant factors or a direct cause to which make's it work related. These include the following:
- Death or Loss of Consciousness - Is a direct result of a work related injury or illness or was caused by significant work environment factors.
- Medical Treatment - The individual needs treatment beyond first aid, had been seen by authorized healthcare provider, and received a prescription as a result of their injury or illness is considered work related.
- Days Lost, Restricted, or Job Transferred - An individual provides documentation from an authorized healthcare provider requiring them to have work activity restrictions or unable to work as part of their treatment.
Non-Work Place Accommodations - Individuals who need accommodations in the work environment due a pre existing medical condition or non work related injury are not considered work related. The university will work with the individual to determine what accommodations are acceptable as outlined by the individual's healthcare provider.