What is Covered Under WCA?
If you own a business in South Africa, understanding what is covered under the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA), also known as the Workmen’s Compensation Act (WCA), is essential. Whether you employ one person or one hundred, ensuring proper registration and compliance can protect both your employees and your business from unexpected risks.
In this article, TechAcc breaks down what WCA covers, who is eligible, and how our expert team can help you stay compliant and focused on growing your business.
What is WCA (Workmen’s Compensation Act)?
The Workmen’s Compensation Act, now governed under COIDA, is legislation designed to protect employees who are injured, fall ill, or die as a result of performing their work duties. It provides compensation and medical benefits funded through employer contributions to the Compensation Fund.
All employers are required by law to register with the Compensation Fund and pay annual assessments based on their industry and payroll.
What is Covered Under WCA?
The WCA offers a wide range of protections for employees. Here are the main areas of coverage:
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Occupational Injuries
If an employee suffers an accident while performing their job duties, the WCA provides compensation. This includes:
- Slips, trips, and falls in the workplace
- Injuries from machinery or tools
- Burns or electric shocks
- Cuts, fractures, or dislocations
Important note: The injury must be reported within 7 days, and must have occurred “in the course and scope of employment.”
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Occupational Diseases
The WCA also covers diseases contracted due to the nature of the work. Examples include:
- Respiratory diseases from chemical exposure
- Skin conditions from frequent handling of irritants
- Hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud environments
- Repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome
For a disease to be covered, it must be listed in Schedule 3 of the COIDA and be directly related to the work environment or tasks.
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Temporary Total Disablement
If an employee is injured and unable to work temporarily, WCA provides compensation during their recovery period. This ensures they are not left without income while undergoing treatment.
Compensation is usually 75% of the employee’s earnings, paid either by the employer (and reimbursed by the Compensation Fund) or directly by the Fund.
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Permanent Disablement
In cases where an employee suffers a permanent disability (partial or total), the WCA offers compensation based on the percentage of disability. This includes:
- Loss of limbs or permanent loss of function
- Long-term physical or psychological impairment
A medical assessment is conducted to determine the degree of disability and compensation accordingly.
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Medical Expenses
The WCA also covers reasonable medical expenses related to the injury or illness, including:
- Doctor’s visits and hospitalisation
- Surgery and treatment
- Medication and rehabilitation
- Assistive devices like crutches or wheelchairs
These costs are covered if treatment is sought at approved facilities or with pre-approval from the Compensation Commissioner.
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Death Benefits
If an employee dies due to a workplace incident or disease, WCA provides:
- Funeral expenses
- Monthly pensions to the widow/widower
- Lump sum or ongoing payments for dependants (e.g. children)
This ensures the deceased worker’s family is financially supported after their loss.
Who is Covered?
WCA/COIDA applies to almost all employees in South Africa, including:
- Full-time and part-time workers
- Temporary workers
- Apprentices and trainees
- Domestic workers (from 2021 onwards)
However, it does not cover independent contractors, military personnel, or workers who are already covered under different compensation schemes.
What is Not Covered Under WCA?
Understanding what is not covered is just as important. WCA will typically not cover:
- Injuries caused by the employee’s own misconduct (e.g. being intoxicated or fighting)
- Injuries that occur while commuting (unless in employer-provided transport)
- Illnesses not directly related to work duties
In such cases, claims may be denied unless exceptional circumstances apply.
Why is WCA Compliance Important for Employers?
As an employer, you have legal responsibilities under COIDA, including:
- Registering with the Compensation Fund
- Submitting annual returns of earnings (ROE)
- Paying assessment fees
- Reporting injuries and illnesses promptly
- Keeping employee records for at least 4 years
Non-compliance can lead to penalties, legal issues, and reputational damage. Worse still, your business might be held financially liable for compensation if not registered with the Fund.
How TechAcc Can Help You Stay WCA Compliant
At TechAcc, we specialise in helping South African businesses handle their Workmen’s Compensation obligations with ease and confidence. Here’s how we can support you:
– WCA Registration
We handle the entire registration process for your business with the Compensation Fund, ensuring you’re fully compliant from day one.
– Submission of Return of Earnings (ROE)
Our expert team submits your Return of Earnings accurately and on time each year, avoiding delays and penalties.
– Accurate Payroll and Assessment Management
We help calculate your WCA assessment rates based on your payroll and industry class, ensuring that you’re paying the correct contributions.
– Injury Reporting and Claims Assistance
If a workplace injury or illness occurs, we guide you through the claim process, from reporting to documentation and submission—minimising your stress.
– Ongoing Compliance Support
With our ongoing services, you never miss a deadline, and we’re always here to answer questions, manage renewals, and handle audits.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what is covered under WCA is critical for protecting your employees and business. From workplace accidents to occupational diseases, the Compensation Fund ensures that workers receive the support they need—and that employers have a structured way to manage risk.
But compliance doesn’t have to be complicated.
Let TechAcc take the pressure off with expert WCA support that’s fast, reliable, and tailored to your business needs.
Please click here to contact us for more info or book an appointment by clicking here.
Stan Kaseke