Purpose

To provide insurance protection for employees in the event of work-related accidents or illnesses.

Eligibility

All employees of the University, regardless of employment category, are entitled to benefits under the Worker's Compensation Law of the Virgin Islands.

Worker's Compensation Benefits

Wages

Employees may be eligible to receive up to 66 2/3 of their base salary (up to a maximum of $309.00 per week) for any period of time in which they are disabled. Wage benefits are determined by Worker's Compensation based upon the type and duration of the injury.

Medical Expenses

Medical expenses related to any injury which occurs on the job will be paid by Worker's Compensation.

Vocational Rehabilitation

If an employee is unable to perform work for which he or she has previous training or experience, as a result of the work-related injury, is entitled to vocational training and job placement for the purpose of allowing him or her to return to the workforce.

Reporting Injuries

It is the responsibility of the employee and his or her supervisor to report any injury which occurs on the job to the Human Resources Department immediately. The following procedures must be followed:

1. The employer (Human Resources) must be notified within forty-eight (48) hours after the injury.
   
2. The Human Resources Office must file an Employer's Report within eight (8) days after receipt of notice from the injured employee.
   
3. Claims for compensation must be filed in the Worker's Compensation Office by the employee within sixty (60) days of the date the injury was incurred.

Medical Examination

Injured employees should undergo a medical examination as soon as possible after the injury occurs. The Human Resources office will provide the appropriate form(s) to be completed by the attending physician. The Worker's Compensation office may require the employee to submit to one or more examination by a doctor of their choice.

Use of Leave

Employees may use their accumulated sick and annual leave to continue to receive a full paycheck for any period of time that they are unable to report to work because of a work-related injury. Worker's Compensation will reimburse the University for 66 2/3 of the leave used, at which time the employee will be credited with the appropriate amount of leave.