Seasonal employees are vital to the operations of many businesses, but they are afforded different benefits than a full-time workers. Even though seasonal employees work fewer hours, they are not entirely immune to injury. Seasonal employees may be more susceptible to injury because they need more experience and training. So, it is fair to wonder if a seasonal employee is covered under workers’ compensation benefits like full-time employees.
In Pennsylvania, almost all employees are covered under workers’ compensation benefits, including part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers. Workers who are not covered include but are not limited to:
- Volunteers
- Agricultural workers who work less than 30 hours per week.
- Farm employees earn less than $1,200 annually from one employer.
Furthermore, workers’ compensation coverage in Pennsylvania:
- Is a no-fault system, meaning that compensation is given to the injured employee regardless of who caused the injury.
- In exchange for coverage, an employee agrees that they cannot sue their employer for any work-related illness or injury.
- An employer should provide their injured worker with at least six healthcare providers to address their illness or injury.
- An employer cannot require you to see a specific provider.
For employees under contract, the contract terms define what party provides workers’ compensation coverage for that worker. If you are a seasonal employee and were placed at a job by a temp agency, workers’ compensation coverage may be transferred to the temp firm.
Common Seasonal Workplace Injuries
If you are a seasonal employee, be aware that you are at an increased risk for injury because of your limited experience and training. Many seasonal workers are college or high school kids who must learn all the safety protocols at their job with limited time. They are also more susceptible to injury because there is an increased demand for workers while taking on more responsibility.
Depending on what type of work you will be doing, here are some common seasonal workplace injuries to look out for:
- Slip and fall injuries: Slip and falls are the most common cause of workplace injuries annually. Wet floors, slick surfaces, and objects on the floor are just a few dangers to look out for in the workplace. Whether you work in retail, in an office, on a construction site, or anywhere else, you must always be aware of your surroundings.
- Dehydration: Dehydration is a significant concern for all workers, especially in summer. Drinking enough water every day is essential to our health, so be aware of your water consumption. If you work outside, your employer should provide water breaks to keep you hydrated.
- Car accident injuries: Summertime and the holiday season see many cars on the road. If your seasonal job requires you to drive most of the time, drive defensively, limit distractions, and get enough rest the night before.
- Heat Injuries: If you are working in the summer, where there is not much air conditioning or ventilation outside, you must be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke. Be on the lookout for headaches, mood changes, and fevers. Stay hydrated and take breaks in an air-conditioned room or shaded area.
West Chester Workplace Accident Lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC Help Injured Temporary Employees File Claims
You will likely have many questions when you are injured at work as a temporary worker. Speak with our West Chester workplace accident lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC today. Call us at 610-594-1600 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Exton, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Downingtown, West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchlan Township, Parkesburg, Chester Springs, Lancaster County, Reading, and Morgantown.