Does Workers’ Comp Cover Repetitive-Stress Injuries?

Workers’ compensation can address illness or injury that develops over time, not only a single accident. California’s Division of Workers’ Compensation defines a cumulative injury as one caused by repeated events or exposures at work, giving the example of hurting a wrist from the same motion over and over. That definition illustrates California guidance; other states decide causation and claim timing under their own law.

If symptoms develop gradually, California advises workers to report the condition once they learn or believe work caused it. Follow the employee’s state reporting deadlines, document job duties and exposures, and check the policy’s applicable states and occupational classifications. A claim may involve cumulative exposure over a period rather than one accident date. Keep task descriptions, ergonomics records, and reports of symptoms so the insurer can investigate when and how exposure occurred.