Why Freelancers In The Construction Sector Need To Protect Themselves

Scope 31 Mar 2025

Listen up, freelancers: If you work in construction, you're at a higher risk of workplace accidents compared to, say, a content creator. But here's the thing—any freelancer, regardless of their industry, can experience an accident. That's why it's crucial to understand the risks and how to protect yourself. Let’s dive in!

As a business owner or freelancer, you can't just turn to your client and hold them accountable if you get injured on the job. Unlike traditional employees, you don't automatically have protections in place if you lose income due to an accident. Many freelancers assume that workplace accidents only happen in construction or industrial settings, but that's not true. Even if you work in healthcare or sit behind a computer all day, accidents or illnesses can still strike. As a freelancer, you're at risk of losing income, and it's important to be aware of that reality.

The best way to safeguard yourself against income loss is by getting the right insurance. The ideal choice here is an occupational disability insurance (AOV). While this type of insurance isn't mandatory for freelancers, I highly recommend getting one. Besides workplace accidents, you could also face temporary or long-term illnesses. Sure, you might have some savings to fall back on, but what happens when that money runs out? A solid insurance policy gives you peace of mind and financial security when you need it most.

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Why Should You Get an AO Insurance?

We touched on this earlier, but let's break it down further: AO insurance isn't required for freelancers, but it’s a smart move to protect your income if you can't work due to an accident. Think about it—what happens if you’re unable to earn money because of an injury? That's where AO insurance comes in.

It's important to realize that your client isn't automatically responsible for your income if an accident occurs. So, who’s ultimately responsible if something goes wrong? As a freelancer, you're responsible for creating a safe working environment for yourself. This includes using the right tools and equipment. But here’s the kicker: you're also responsible for managing your income if you're temporarily unable to work. A workplace accident can be financially devastating, especially if it leads to long-term disability or prevents you from performing your job fully after recovery.

Another factor to consider is your hourly rate when you're freelancing. Freelancers often charge more per hour than employees because they factor in additional costs like insurance. If an employee gets injured on the job, their employer is usually responsible for covering their income. However, as a freelancer, you don’t have that luxury. This is a significant difference between being an employee and a contractor.

What Happens If the Accident Wasn’t Your Fault?

Even if you’re 100% sure the accident wasn’t your fault, having AO insurance is still valuable. This insurance can cover you during the time you're not earning income, and it can also help you bridge the gap while you're waiting to receive compensation from the responsible party. For instance, if you're filing a claim against your client or another business, AO insurance ensures you can keep your life on track while you wait for the settlement. Dealing with an injury is stressful enough without worrying about finances.

Curious to learn more? Check out this video where entrepreneur Rudi Theunissen shares more insights on this topic.

A Final Thought

The bottom line is this: as a freelancer, you need to take proactive steps to protect yourself. Whether you're working on a construction site or typing away at your desk, accidents can happen. By investing in the right insurance, you're not just protecting your income—you're securing your future. Stay safe out there, and remember, prevention is always better than cure!