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06

December 2024

Who is eligible for 'Work Accident' insurance?

Блог

Миглена Жотева

Author: Миглена Жотева

In today's working environment, employee safety is crucial. Many employers now offer health insurance or "Work Accident" insurance as part of their employee benefits packages. However, did you know that for certain professions, "Work Accident" insurance is mandatory by law?

In this article, we will explore what constitutes a workplace accident, the preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of such incidents, which workers are legally obligated to have this insurance, and the types of risks that it covers.

What is a "workplace accident"?

According to Article 55, paragraph 1 of the Social Security Code (SSC), a workplace accident is any sudden health impairment that occurs as a result of the performance of work duties.

The accident does not necessarily have to happen at the workplace—it may occur:

  • During a business trip,
  • While on official travel,
  • Even during the usual commute between home and the workplace.

This definition is extended by Article 55, paragraph 2 of the SSC, which also includes accidents that happen during breaks, meals, or while receiving a salary.

Who is required to have "Work Accident" insurance?

Certain professions are considered to be more hazardous due to the nature of the work performed. For these professions, "Work Accident" insurance is mandatory.

The obligation to have such insurance is determined by:

  1. The labor injury coefficient: This is an indicator calculated based on workplace accidents over the past three years. *The labor injury coefficient is established by the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy. It is calculated based on statistical data on workplace accidents in various economic activities for a period of the last three years, and it is approved by the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy.
  2. The list of mandatory insurances, approved by an order from the Minister of Labor and Social Policy.

Employer’s responsibilities:

  • To check if their activity is listed in the mandatory insurance list.
  • To purchase insurance for all employees in the risk category.

Employers are required to verify if their business activity falls under the list of mandatory insurance specified in the minister’s order. The costs for the insurance are borne by the employer, and the premium can be paid either annually in one lump sum or in monthly installments, depending on the contract terms with the employee.

Important: Even if the profession is not on the list, employers may voluntarily provide insurance for their employees.

Coverage Type Description
Permanent Disability A percentage of the insured sum is paid corresponding to the percentage of permanent disability.
Temporary Disability Compensation is paid according to the duration of the temporary disability.
Death The insured sum is paid to the beneficiaries of the insured.
Extended Coverage This may include the "Domestic Accident" risk or additional costs for treatment, recovery, and rehabilitation.

Additionally, the coverage can be extended under Article 55, Paragraph 2 of the Social Security Code (KSO), and Euroins offers the option to include the "Domestic Accident" risk for an additional premium. This covers sudden health impairments occurring outside of working hours and the workplace.

Benefits of "Work Accident" Insurance

"Work accident" insurance is essential for ensuring workplace safety. It provides employees with security and protection while they carry out their work duties. For employers, this insurance not only meets mandatory legal requirements but also serves as a tool for enhancing the work environment and fostering trust among employees. Another valuable insurance for a modern social program is Group Health Insurance. For more details about the conditions and coverage offered by such a policy, you can visit the Euroins website

How to Avoid a Work Accident?

Safety and health regulations at work are internal acts by the employer that establish requirements for performing specific tasks. They serve as preventive measures to reduce the risk of accidents.

It is the employer’s responsibility to provide workers with safety instructions, display them in appropriate places, or use them during safety and health briefings.

Workers are required to adhere to these guidelines to ensure their own safety and the safety of their colleagues.

The instructions should be understandable to the workers they pertain to and must include the following essential information:

  • The rights, duties, and responsibilities of those who manage the work processes;
  • The required qualifications or certification for workers;
  • Requirements for healthy and safe working conditions;
  • Collective protection means and personal protective equipment necessary for the work;
  • A diagram of the locations for placing workplace safety signs, as well as fire and emergency safety signs;
  • Other specific requirements related to the working conditions.