There are many industries and employees that can be subject to the Defense Base Act. Knowing if your company is in one of them or if you, as an employee, are entitled to coverage, is important to protecting your rights.
The Defense Base Act protects people contracted to work with the federal government. Some of the people and businesses protected under the Defense Base Act may include:
- Educational facilities
- Consultants
- Engineers
- Project managers
- Facilities support management services
- IT providers
- Logistical support services
Essentially, if you work in the appropriate employment category, you will be protected by the Defense Base Act.
When is someone protected by the Defense Base Act?
It’s typical for the Defense Base Act to protect those who are working on contracts with the federal government. These contracts involve employment:
- On air, military, or naval bases.
- Employers outside the U.S. when the job is benefitting the Armed Forces.
- A job on lands occupied by the U.S. for military purposes.
- On public works projects when under contract with the government
There are also other cases when your employer and you may be protected under the act.
If you’re hurt at work, you may be able to make a claim
There are many benefits available under the Defense Base Act. Some of the basic benefits include:
- Vocational rehabilitation, which can help you train for a new job if you can no longer do the one you did in the past.
- Disability compensation, so you can access lost wages and receive compensation while focusing on your recovery.
- Death benefits for families of those who have died as a result of accidents or injuries on the job.
- Medical treatment, which will help you heal and recover at no cost to you.
You deserve an opportunity to receive care if you are hurt while working on a military base or on a government project. The Defense Base Act is there to make sure you have the opportunity to collect the benefits that you need and that you are protected as you focus on your recovery. If you are hurt, remember that you have a limited time to start the claims process.
