Understanding Who Is Covered by OWCP Workers’ Compensation in Georgia
Federal employees in Georgia who suffer a job-related injury or develop an occupational disease may be entitled to compensation benefits through the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP). This federal system, governed by the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), provides wage loss compensation, medical treatment, and support for eligible workers. Knowing who qualifies, what injuries are covered, and how to file a claim is essential for protecting your rights after a workplace incident.
In this blog, you’ll learn who is covered by OWCP workers’ compensation in Georgia, what injuries and benefits are included under FECA, how to file a claim, and why working with an experienced federal workers’ compensation lawyer can help protect your rights throughout the process.
What Is OWCP and What Does It Do?
The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) provides compensation benefits to federal employees who suffer a job-related injury, illness, or occupational disease.
The Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP)
The OWCP is a division of the U.S. Department of Labor. It manages federal workers’ compensation programs that support injured or ill federal employees. Covered benefits include medical treatment, wage loss compensation, and payments for permanent impairment or an employee’s death.
Administering the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA)
The OWCP administers claims under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), located in 5 U.S.C. §§ 8101–8193. FECA covers most federal employees who experience a work-related injury or occupational illness. The law ensures access to medical care and financial support during the recovery period or in case of long-term disability.
Who Is Covered by OWCP Workers’ Compensation?
OWCP workers’ compensation applies to most federal employees in Georgia who experience a job-related injury, occupational disease, or other qualifying condition during federal employment.
Federal Employees Eligible for OWCP Coverage
OWCP coverage is limited to federal employees. This includes both full-time and part-time workers employed by federal agencies. Common examples include postal workers, TSA agents, federal law enforcement officers, Veterans Affairs employees, civilian Department of Defense staff, and administrative workers in federal courthouses. These workers are eligible for compensation benefits if they suffer a work-related injury or illness.
Covered Conditions Under FECA
To receive benefits under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), the injury or illness must be related to federal employment. Covered conditions include traumatic injury caused by a specific event, occupational disease resulting from repeated exposure, and medical complications linked to the job. Mental health conditions can also be covered if supported by medical evidence and proven to be work-related.
Georgia-Based Federal Workers
Federal workers in Georgia fall under the same FECA protection as those in other states. Although the state of Georgia has its own workers’ compensation system, OWCP applies only to federal employees and is handled through the U.S. Department of Labor. The location of the job does not affect eligibility as long as the employment is federal.
Workers Not Covered by OWCP
Private-sector employees, state and local government workers, and contractors are not covered by OWCP. These workers must file for compensation benefits through the Georgia state workers’ compensation system. Only employees classified as federal workers are entitled to OWCP protections.
What Injuries and Conditions Are Covered?
OWCP workers’ compensation provides benefits for a range of injuries and medical conditions that result from federal employment.
Traumatic Injuries
A traumatic injury is caused by a specific event or series of events during a single work shift. Examples include slips, falls, equipment accidents, or sudden physical strain. To qualify, the injury must be directly linked to the employee’s duties. The worker must report the incident to the employing agency and file a claim using Form CA-1.
Occupational Diseases and Illnesses
An occupational disease develops over time due to repeated exposure or conditions in the work environment. These can include respiratory problems from inhaling hazardous substances, repetitive strain injuries, and certain mental health conditions. Workers must file Form CA-2 and provide medical evidence that the illness is connected to their federal job.
Permanent Impairment and Long-Term Effects
If a federal worker suffers a permanent loss of function in a part of the body, they may qualify for a schedule award under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act. This includes permanent impairment of limbs, vision, or hearing. The compensation is based on medical evaluation and the body part affected.
Death and Survivor Benefits
If a federal employee dies as a result of a job-related injury or occupational illness, surviving family members may receive compensation payments. These benefits can include funeral expenses and ongoing financial support for eligible dependents.
Mental Health Conditions
OWCP may approve claims for mental health issues if they are caused by work-related stress or events. The employee must submit clear medical documentation linking the condition to specific aspects of the job. Claims based on stress alone, without a documented incident or pattern, are rarely accepted.
Requirements for Coverage
To be eligible for compensation benefits, the worker must prove that the injury or illness occurred in the course of federal employment. The claim must include medical evidence and details of the work-related cause. Prompt reporting and accurate documentation increase the chance of approval.
Benefits Available Under OWCP Workers’ Compensation
Federal employees covered under OWCP workers’ compensation may receive a range of benefits based on the type and severity of their work-related injury or illness.
Wage Loss Compensation
OWCP provides wage loss compensation when an injury or illness prevents the employee from working. For short-term absences, the employee may receive continuation of pay (COP) for up to 45 days. If the disability lasts longer, wage loss compensation begins after the COP period ends. Payments are based on a percentage of the employee’s regular pay, typically 66 to 75 percent depending on dependents.
Medical Treatment and Care
Injured federal workers are entitled to medical care related to their accepted condition. This includes doctor visits, surgery, physical therapy, prescription drugs, and diagnostic tests. All treatment must be provided by a physician approved by OWCP. The agency also pays for travel expenses related to medical appointments.
Schedule Awards for Permanent Impairment
If a worker has permanent loss or loss of use of a body part, they may qualify for a schedule award. The amount is determined by the degree of permanent impairment and the body part affected. A medical evaluation is required to calculate the percentage of loss and the number of weeks of compensation.
Vocational Rehabilitation
When a worker cannot return to their previous federal job due to medical restrictions, OWCP may offer vocational rehabilitation services. These services include job training, resume assistance, and help with finding new employment that fits the worker’s physical ability.
Death Benefits for Survivors
If a federal employee dies due to a job-related injury or occupational disease, eligible family members may receive death benefits. OWCP pays compensation to surviving spouses and children, along with funeral and burial expenses. The amount varies based on the number of dependents.
Additional Support Services
OWCP may provide home health care, medical equipment, and attendant services when required by the accepted condition. All services must be prescribed by an approved medical provider and authorized by OWCP. These benefits aim to support recovery and maintain the worker’s quality of life.
How to File a FECA Claim in Georgia
Filing a claim under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA) is the first step for federal employees in Georgia seeking compensation benefits for a job-related injury or illness.
Report the Injury or Illness Immediately
Federal employees must notify their employing agency as soon as possible after a traumatic injury or the discovery of an occupational disease. Delays in reporting can affect eligibility for benefits. Verbal notice is not enough. The worker must complete the required forms and submit them to their agency’s workers’ compensation office.
Choose the Correct Claim Form
For a traumatic injury caused by a specific event during a single shift, employees must submit Form CA-1. For occupational diseases or illnesses that develop over time, Form CA-2 is required. Both forms are available through the employing agency or online from the Department of Labor.
Seek Medical Attention from an Approved Provider
Injured workers must receive treatment from a provider authorized by the OWCP. The medical documentation must clearly state the diagnosis, the cause of the condition, and how it is related to the employee’s federal job duties. Incomplete or vague medical records can lead to claim denial.
Submit Documentation to the OWCP
The employing agency forwards the completed claim form and medical evidence to the OWCP. Workers should keep copies of all submitted materials. Once received, OWCP assigns a case number and begins the review process. Accurate and complete documentation supports faster claim approval.
Follow Up on Claim Status
After submission, workers can track their FECA claim through the Employees’ Compensation Operations and Management Portal (ECOMP). The OWCP may request additional information, such as further medical records or clarification from the employer. Prompt responses are important to avoid delays.
Understand the Role of the Employing Agency
The employing agency is responsible for investigating the injury, verifying the claim, and submitting required paperwork. It does not approve or deny claims. That authority rests with the OWCP. Cooperation between the employee and the agency helps ensure all facts are properly documented.
Legal Help for the Claims Process
If a claim is denied or delayed, a workers’ compensation attorney can assist in gathering evidence, responding to OWCP requests, and filing an appeal. Legal guidance is useful when dealing with complex medical issues or disputed work conditions.
Consult With Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Atlanta About Your Claim ASAP!
If you are a federal employee in Georgia and need help with an OWCP claim, reach out to our team at Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Atlanta. We understand the FECA process and are ready to help you secure the compensation benefits you deserve.
Contact us at 470-518-5026 for a free claim review today!