COIDA for Employees
What you need to know if you are injured at work
If you are injured or become sick because of your work, South African law may protect you through a system called COIDA.
COIDA helps workers receive:
- Medical treatment
- Compensation for lost income
- Disability support
- Financial protection after workplace injuries
This guide explains your rights and what happens if you are injured while working.
1️⃣ What is COIDA?
COIDA stands for the:
Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act
It is a South African law that protects employees who:
- Are injured at work
- Become sick because of work
- Suffer a workplace disease
- Become disabled because of work
- Die because of a workplace incident
COIDA is managed by the Compensation Fund.
2️⃣ Does COIDA Cover Domestic Workers?
✅ Yes.
Domestic workers are protected under COIDA, including:
- Nannies
- Gardeners
- Housekeepers
- Caregivers
- Drivers working for households
Even part-time employees may qualify for protection.
3️⃣ What Rights Do You Have?
If you are injured while working, you may have the right to:
✅ Medical Treatment
The Compensation Fund may pay for:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital treatment
- Medication
- Medical tests
- Rehabilitation
✅ Compensation While You Cannot Work
If your injury prevents you from working temporarily, you may receive money while recovering.
✅ Permanent Disability Compensation
If the injury causes permanent disability, additional compensation may apply.
✅ Dependants’ Support
If a worker dies because of a workplace injury, dependants may receive financial assistance.
4️⃣ What Should You Do If You Are Injured?
🩹 Step 1: Get Medical Help Immediately
See a doctor or clinic as soon as possible.
Tell the medical provider:
The injury happened at work.
📄 Step 2: Tell Your Employer Immediately
You should report:
- What happened
- When it happened
- Where it happened
Do not wait too long.
🏥 Step 3: Medical Reports Are Submitted
The doctor may need to complete forms for the Compensation Fund.
💰 Step 4: The Compensation Fund Reviews the Claim
The Fund reviews:
- Your injury
- Medical reports
- Time off work
- Employer information
✅ Step 5: Benefits May Be Paid
If approved:
- Medical expenses may be covered
- Income replacement may be paid
- Disability compensation may apply
5️⃣ What If Your Employer Is Not Registered?
Even if your employer did not register for COIDA:
- You should still report the injury
- You may still receive assistance
- The employer may face penalties
Do not stay silent because you think you are not covered.
6️⃣ Important Things To Know
⚠️ Report Injuries Quickly
Late reporting can delay or affect claims.
⚠️ Keep Copies of Documents
Keep:
- Medical notes
- Injury reports
- Prescriptions
- Messages with your employer
⚠️ Not Every Injury Is Covered
COIDA may not cover:
- Injuries outside work
- Incidents not related to work
- Serious misconduct situations
7️⃣ Can You Be Fired Because of a Workplace Injury?
Your employer should handle workplace injuries fairly and lawfully.
If you are unable to work because of an injury:
- There should be a proper process
- Your employer should communicate with you
- Your rights must be respected
If you are unsure, AskMandla can help explain the process.
8️⃣ How AskMandla Helps
AskMandla can help by:
- Explaining your rights
- Helping you understand the process
- Supporting communication with your employer
- Keeping records safely
- Guiding you after workplace injuries
Simply message:
“COIDA help”
on WhatsApp.
📌 Key Takeaways
✅ Domestic workers are protected under COIDA
✅ Workplace injuries should be reported immediately
✅ Medical treatment and compensation may be available
✅ Employers are responsible for COIDA registration
✅ Keep all records and documents safe