Workers’ Compensation

Term: Workers’ CompensationDefinition: A form of insurance providing wage replacement and medical benefits to employees injured in the course of employment, including those affected by asbestos exposure.Phonetic Pronunciation: (WURK-ers kahm-pen-SAY-shuhn)Origin: The concept of workers' compensation originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to industrial accidents. The term itself combines "workers," referring to employees, with "compensation," from the Latin "compensare," meaning to balance or weigh together, signifying the balancing of financial support for workplace injuries.Significance in Asbestos Context: Workers’ compensation is crucial for asbestos-related cases because it can provide financial relief and medical coverage to workers exposed to asbestos in their workplace. It often serves as an alternative to suing employers directly, though it may not cover all damages or losses related to asbestos diseases.Example Sentence: After being diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure at his job, John filed for workers’ compensation to cover his medical expenses and lost wages.Related Terms: Asbestos Exposure, Occupational Disease, Mesothelioma, Asbestosis, Liability InsuranceNotes: - Workers’ compensation benefits may vary by jurisdiction and may not cover all asbestos-related diseases or conditions. - It is important to consult with a legal professional to understand the full scope of workers’ compensation in asbestos cases. - Some states allow for additional lawsuits against third parties responsible for asbestos exposure, even if workers’ compensation has been awarded.