Which insurance is essential to cover injuries to workers on the job in an architectural practice?

• A. General liability
• B. Professional liability
• C. Errors and omissions
• D. Workers' compensation

Answer: (D)

On-the-job injuries to staff are covered by workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage provides medical treatment, wage replacement, and rehabilitation benefits to employees who are hurt while working, and it applies regardless of fault. It’s typically required by state law for architectural firms with employees, so having it helps the firm stay compliant and avoid penalties. Workers’ comp also protects the firm by offering an exclusive remedy: employees receive benefits through the program rather than pursuing lawsuits for workplace injuries, which helps control potential legal costs and exposure. In an architectural practice, injuries can occur during site visits, field surveys, or even while performing office duties, so this insurance ensures those costs are managed and the business isn’t exposed to large, unpredictable medical bills or litigation. General liability covers third-party injuries or property damage; professional liability (or errors and omissions) covers negligent design work. Neither of those is designed to cover injuries to employees, which is why workers’ compensation is the essential policy.