Is a Workmen's Compensation Policy Necessary for Short-Term Site Visits in India?

Respected Members,

We have a team of 40 people, and we provide technical services to a few multinational companies. Some team members whose salaries are above INR 21,000 are covered under an insurance policy (PA + Medical). Every member of our team attends different sites every month for AMC or installation of equipment.

Query on Workmen's Compensation Policy

My query is, since we are not working on any single project, and in most cases, we are either visiting a single site for one or two days a month or, in some cases, quarterly, is it possible and mandatory to take out a Workmen's Compensation policy?

**Location**: Calcutta, India

Workmen's Compensation Policy for Visiting Sites in India

In India, the Workmen's Compensation Act, 1923, is a crucial legislation that ensures protection for employees in case of work-related injuries or accidents. While the specifics can vary based on state regulations, it's essential to understand the implications of this law when employees are frequently visiting different sites for work purposes.

Key Considerations:
- The Workmen's Compensation Act applies to all employees, including those who visit different sites for short durations, irrespective of the duration of their visit.
- It is mandatory for employers to provide compensation to employees for any injuries or accidents sustained during the course of employment.
- The Act covers a broad range of scenarios, including temporary work assignments, site visits, or any work-related activities that may pose risks to employees.

Guidelines for Compliance:
1. Assess the Risk: Evaluate the potential risks associated with site visits and determine the necessity of a Workmen's Compensation policy based on these risks.
2. Consult Legal Experts: Seek guidance from legal professionals or insurance advisors to ensure compliance with the relevant laws and regulations in Calcutta, India.
3. Policy Coverage: Consider obtaining a comprehensive Workmen's Compensation policy that specifically addresses the nature of your team's work, including site visits and short-duration assignments.
4. Employee Awareness: Communicate the details of the Workmen's Compensation policy to your team members to ensure they are aware of their rights and entitlements in case of any work-related incidents.
5. Documentation: Maintain accurate records of site visits, employee assignments, and any incidents that may occur during these visits to facilitate the claims process if needed.

Conclusion:
Given that your team members frequently visit different sites for work purposes, it is advisable to explore the option of obtaining a Workmen's Compensation policy to safeguard their interests and ensure compliance with relevant labor laws in Calcutta, India.

By proactively addressing these considerations and implementing necessary measures, you can protect both your employees and your organization in the event of any unforeseen incidents during site visits.