What does the Bunkhouse rule pertain to in workers’ compensation context?

• A. Coming and going rule
• B. Commercial traveler rule
• C. Bunkhouse rule
• D. Home office rule

Answer: (C)

The bunkhouse rule deals with injuries that happen when a worker lives in employer-provided housing as part of the job. In California workers’ compensation, there’s a general rule that injuries during ordinary travel to or from work aren’t compensable. The bunkhouse rule is an exception: when the employer provides the worker’s lodging (a bunkhouse or similar on-site housing) and the stay is required for employment, the time spent living there is treated as part of the employment. As a result, injuries occurring in or around that bunkhouse, or during activities related to being on the job while there, can be compensable even if they occur during off-work hours or while the worker is resting.

This is especially common for workers at remote sites or camps where housing is necessary for the job. It’s the on-site, employer-controlled living situation that makes injuries in that setting fall within the scope of employment.