Workers' Compensation

Workers’ Compensation is a medical leave of absence that applies to you if you need to miss work due to a workplace incident, accident or job-related illness. All Howard University employees are covered by the D.C. Workers’ Compensation Law. Workers’ Compensation is insurance that will provide you with payment and/or medical care if you have been injured or become ill as a direct result of your job.

Workers' Compensation

Applying to Workers' Compensation

Steps for Workers’ Compensation

  1. Seek medical attention if you need immediate help.
  2. You must report the incident to your supervisor within 24 hours.
  3. The First Report of Injury must be completed by employee, signed by supervisor and submitted to the Benefits Analyst in the Office of Human Resources within 48 hours.
  4. Be certain to complete this form within 24 hours of the incident, to make sure that there is no delay in the process.
  5. If you will be absent from work due to your injury you should also be sure to contact the Benefits Analyst in the Office of Human Resources.
  6. You will also need to provide your supervisor with a doctor’s note to cover your absence and keep them properly updated on your return to work date.

Useful Information

All Employees

If you are eligible for leave under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), FMLA will run concurrently with Workers’ Compensation.

Faculty

Please refer to the Faculty Handbook for additional information on Workers' Compensation policies. 

Union Employees

Per your Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), Workers’ Compensation may be available. Contact your CBA more information.

Returning to Work

Prior to returning to work, submit medical certification from your physician (doctor’s note) to Sedgwick. Please also reach out to the Benefits Analyst in the Office of Human Resources to provide an update on your return to work. If you require a workplace accommodation, you must contact your department’s HR Business Partner in the Office of Human Resources to coordinate with you and your department prior to your return to work.