The Blurring Lines of the Workplace
Hybrid work is here to stay in Southern California. But when an employee trips over their dog while working from home in Pasadena, is that a workers’ comp claim? The answer is often yes.
The “Course and Scope” Rule
In California, if an injury arises out of and in the course of employment, it is compensable. This applies to home offices if the employee was performing work duties at the time of injury.
Protecting Your Business
- Define the Workspace: Have remote employees designate a specific area as their “office.”
- Safety Checklists: Require employees to verify their workspace is free of hazards (loose cords, poor lighting).
- Fixed Hours: Establish clear work hours to differentiate between “work time” and “personal time.”
Remote work complicates insurance. Let us help you update your policy wording.