Miscellaneous Benefits

Unemployment Compensation

An employee who becomes partially or totally unemployed may be eligible for Unemployment Compensation benefits under state law.

Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ Compensation provides benefits to employees who sustain work-related injuries while carrying out the duties and responsibilities of their employment. Work-related diseases are also generally compensable conditions.

Workers’ Compensation coverage includes full payment of any medical expenses resulting from a work-related function, as well as travel risks while away from the Harrisonburg area on EMU business, but not the normal travel between home and campus.

This benefit also includes compensation for lost work time due to injury, which begins after seven calendar days.

The employee and his/her supervisor should make sure that all on-the-job injuries are reported to the Human Resources Office without delay. The employer has a maximum of three days to file reports or coverage may be jeopardized. Full cooperation is solicited. Refer to the Safety Manual for accident reporting instructions.

Discounts

The University Bookstore offers EMU employees a 10 percent discount on most items. Discounts are available to EMU employees who purchase any regularly priced meal in the cafeteria.

Breaks

Administrative and staff employees are entitled to a daily 10 to 15 minute break. This is an optional benefit; working during this time does not shorten the workday.

Fitness Center

The fitness center is available for all employees, spouses and dependents. The faculty/staff ID is valid for entrance to the fitness center. There is an annual fee for spouse and dependent (per person) for the use of the fitness center. Employees who have a workload of .75 or higher will not be charged a fee for the use of the fitness center; however, employees will be taxed for the benefit. Employees with a workload less than .75 will be charged the annual fee.

Mutual Aid

The purpose of the EMU mutual aid is to provide for unusual or unplanned employee expenses such as those associated with uncovered medical, dental or ocular bills, or acts of nature. The council is comprised of four elected employee representatives: one each from faculty, administrators, office and physical plant.

Mutual aid funds may be allocated upon review of the Mutual Aid Request Application. The application is available in the Human Resources Office. Any employee requesting funds must disclose financial information that will substantiate the unexpected expense. This confidential information will assist the Mutual Aid Council in processing the request. The council may set limits as to the amount awarded per year to one individual or family. Three members of the council must approve all fund awards. If aid is awarded to a council member, the vice president for finance must also approve it.

Department chairs/program directors are encouraged to identify needs among their employees and to see that the council is made aware of the existing needs.