Employee Guide to Worker's Compensation Insurance
Who is Covered?
- As an employer located in the State of Washington, the University of Washington purchases workers' compensation insurance from the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Coverage is provided for paid employees who are injured on the job or who contract an occupational illness that relates to their employment at the University of Washington Bothell.
- Coverage begins on the first day of employment.
- You cannot waive your right to these benefits.
- Volunteers are covered for medical expenses only.
Reporting an Injury, Illness, or Near Miss
- An injury or illness is an accident or incident that causes physical harm.
- A near miss is an incident that has the potential to cause harm to people, property, processes or the environment.
- You are required to report any work-related illness, injury, or near misses to your supervisor immediately. If you are seriously injured, you should seek immediate medical treatment.
- You should ask to fill out the University of Washington, Bothell's Accident/Incident/Quality Improvement Report (form UoW 1018) as a record of the incident. This form is an internal document and WILL NOT initiate a workers' compensation claim.
The Claim Process
- The UW Risk Management - Workers' Compensation Team is available to:
- Assist employees with the workers' compensation claim process.
- Assist supervisors with the workers'compensation claim process.
- Facilitate the early return-to-work of employees with restrictions.
- Process claim forms and information to expedite benefits when appropriate.
- Work with L&I to manage claims and costs.
- Manage the sick leave buyback program.
- Maintain confidentiality in compliance with RCW 51.28.070.
- Serve as a liaison between the university, L&I, the employee, the employee’s department, the vocational counselor and the medical provider(s).
More Information
Contact Information
UW Bothell Human Resource Manager: 425.352.5462
UW Worker's Compensation Team: 206.543.0183
