In recent years, the regulation of domestic labour in Portugal has gained more attention. However, it is still common to see employers who are unaware of or neglect the importance of ensuring adequate insurance for their domestic workers. This insurance, although compulsory by law, is often seen as an unnecessary cost, when in fact it offers numerous benefits for both the employer and the worker. In Portugal, it is estimated that there are more than 80,000 workers in the domestic sector, many of whom still operate in the informal market. Social Security reported that, in 2023, around 45,000 domestic workers were legally registered, which means that a significant proportion still don't benefit from full labour rights, including compulsory insurance. What is Domestic Employee Insurance? Domestic worker insurance is a compulsory policy that covers the risks inherent in the labour activity of a worker who provides cleaning, childcare, gardening or other domestic services. In essence, this insurance aims to protect workers in the event of accidents at work and also accidents when travelling from home to work and vice versa, guaranteeing them access to medical care, wage compensation for time off work and even pensions in the event of permanent disability. According to Portuguese legislation, employers are responsible for ensuring that their employees are covered by this insurance, under penalty of sanctions and fines. Insurance Benefits for the Employer Although some employers consider insurance to be an additional cost, the benefits are significant and go beyond mere legal compliance:

1. Legal protection: By taking out insurance, the employer is fulfilling its legal responsibility. This avoids possible legal proceedings and fines, which can be very costly.
2. Financial peace of mindIn the event of an accident, the insurance covers medical costs and compensation, preventing the employer from having to bear unexpected costs.
3. Employee loyaltyBy offering a safe environment and guaranteeing labour protection, the employer can foster a relationship of trust with the employee, increasing her motivation and loyalty.

Benefits for Domestic Workers For domestic workers, insurance offers a safety net that is essential for their protection and well-being:

1. Accident Assistance: The insurance covers medical expenses resulting from accidents at work and also accidents when travelling from home to work and vice versa, ensuring that the employee receives the necessary health care at no extra cost.
2. Salary compensationIf the employee has to take time off work due to an accident, the insurance guarantees that she will continue to receive part of her salary, mitigating the financial impact.
3. Disability CompensationIn more serious cases, where the employee suffers permanent incapacity, the insurance provides financial compensation that can be crucial to her livelihood.

According to data from the Labour Conditions Authority (ACT), between 2020 and 2023, there were hundreds of accidents at work in the domestic sector. Although these figures may seem low compared to other sectors, the nature of domestic work - often carried out without adequate training or conditions - increases the risk of injury. Despite its importance, many employers remain unaware of or undervalue the need for domestic worker insurance. This lack of interest can be attributed to various factors, such as the informality of the sector, the lack of rigorous supervision and the misconception that insurance is an unnecessary cost. However, this view is short-term, since an accident at work can result in costs far greater than the annual insurance premium. Insurance for domestic workers is not just a legal obligation, but an ethical and practical necessity. It offers protection for both the employer and the employee, promoting a safer and fairer working environment. Given the number of accidents in the sector and the high percentage of unregistered workers, it is essential to raise awareness of the importance of this policy. Ultimately, ensuring that a domestic worker has access to adequate insurance is investing in the safety, well-being and dignity of those who play a vital role in our homes. As employers, we have a responsibility to ensure that these workers are protected, for their sake as well as our own.