Työonnettomuus

Työonnettomuus refers to an accident that occurs during an employee's work or in direct connection with their work. This definition includes accidents that happen on the employer's premises during working hours, as well as accidents that occur while traveling to or from work if the travel is necessitated by the employment and is not a typical commute. It can also encompass accidents that happen during work-related training, business trips, or at the workplace outside of regular working hours if the employee is present for work-related reasons.

The key elements of a työonnettomuus are that it is an event that causes injury, illness, or death, and it is directly related to the performance of work duties or the work environment. Finnish legislation, particularly the Occupational Safety and Health Act, defines employer responsibilities to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment. If a työonnettomuus occurs, employers are obligated to report it to the relevant authorities, such as the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health and the insurance company responsible for workers' compensation.

Compensation for a työonnettomuus is typically handled through the employer's mandatory accident insurance. This insurance covers medical expenses, lost wages due to inability to work, and, in the event of permanent disability or death, provides compensation to the employee or their dependents. The investigation of a työonnettomuus aims to determine its causes, identify any failures in safety procedures, and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. This includes evaluating workplace conditions, equipment safety, and adherence to safety protocols.