Compensability of Workers' Compensation Claims for Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMDS) Using Logistic Regression: An Empirical Study of an Appliance Manufacturer

Abstract

Over 6500 workers' compensation claims, initiated in 1993–1996 and closed by March 1997, in a population-based study of appliance manufacturing employees were evaluated. The result of statistical analysis (Chi-square test) disproves the hypothesis of no association between WRMDs and workers' compensation claim (compensability) outcome. In addition, a mathematical relationship between work-related musculoskeletal disorders and workers' compensation claim outcomes was developed using the logistic regression modeling. The results revealed that individuals with a WRMD type injury are 2.55 times more likely than an individual without a WRMD to be compensated. Other variables proving to be significant were tool use, being on restricted duty, and straining. The results have important implications for areas to target for prevention and ergonomic intervention among workers, particularly for return-to-work programs and workers' compensation cost reduction.