What is the difference between an injury and an occupational disease?

An injury is a sudden and traumatic event producing an immediate result to the worker. An occupational disease is a medical condition that arises naturally and proximately out of employment.

Example: Falling off a ladder and breaking an arm would be an injury. Constant use of a jack hammer resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome may be considered an occupational disease.

Pre-existing conditions that are aggravated by an injury or occupational disease are also covered.