Which Labor Code section defines the date of knowledge used to determine when an employer is aware of the injury?

• A. LC 5402
• B. LC 5401
• C. LC 5410
• D. LC 5400

Answer: (A)

The date of knowledge is the moment the employer is considered to be aware that a work-related injury has occurred. Labor Code section 5402 defines this date as the point when the employer or its insurer receives actual knowledge of the injury from any source—such as an employee report, a medical diagnosis, or other information that indicates a work-related injury. This date starts the clock for the employer’s notice obligations and potential penalties for late reporting, regardless of when the injury physically happened or when the employee first reported it. Other Labor Code sections address related topics like initial notice requirements, disability payments, or penalties, but they do not define when knowledge is established—the date of knowledge is specifically tied to 5402.