[Question] Workman's Compensation liability

[Peter1952]

Is it compulsory to pay workman's compensation?

[Dave A]

If you have employees, essentially yes. Off the top of my head, the only exception is domestic employees, I think.

(And I've often wondered about the potential risks that poses to the employers in that situation, frankly).

[Patk]

It is quite correct all companies with workers are required to register with and pay workman's compensation.
Domestic workers are excluded from the system. Confirmed.
Pat Kelly

[Dave A]

It is quite correct all companies with workers are required...

Not to take anything away from your point, but rather to expand the scope somewhat - I suspect the question arises because not all employers view themselves as companies.

Other areas that come to mind where employers might start "negotiating the point" is where an employee works from home rather than the emloyer's place of business. And then there is the issue of contractors that might be deemed employees for tax purposes - where do they stand in the WC liability of the employer / client?

[J7J]

It is quite correct all companies with workers are required to register with and pay workman's compensation.

So if you employed your first employee in 2006, will you be assessed retrospectively from that date?