What is COIDA?
COIDA stands for:
C – Compensation for
O – Occupational
I – Injuries and
D – Diseases
A – Act
What is the purpose?
The purpose of this Act is to provide compensation in the case of:
• disablement caused by occupational injuries or diseases
• sustained or contracted by employees in the course of their employment,
• or death resulting from such injuries or disease
COIDA is a no-fault-based compensation system that is intended to provide quick compensation to injured employees.
The Act is important for employers because it prevents employees or their dependents from suing their employers (who are covered by the Act) for damages, in other words, it protects employers from civil claims.
Development of the Act -
Prior to 1 March 1994, employees were covered by the Workman's Compensation Act
After 1 March 1994, the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) came into effect.
As recently as 17 April 2023 the COIDA Amendment Bill was gazetted.
It is important to note that COIDA replaced the Workman's Compensation Act.
In future articles to come, we will be breaking down the different aspects related to COIDA to help better understand the Act. Please feel free to consult with us should you have any questions.
