According to workers' compensation law, which of the following indicates the minimum number of employees an employer must have to be subject to the law?

In Tennessee, workers' compensation law mandates that an employer must have a minimum of five employees to be subject to the law. This threshold is significant because it ensures that smaller employers, who may not have the same capacity for risk management and financial resources as larger companies, are not burdened by the complexities of workers' compensation insurance.

The rationale for having this minimum number is to balance the need to protect workers through compensation for workplace injuries while allowing smaller businesses the flexibility to operate without the financial strain imposed by mandatory coverage. Employers with five or more employees generally engage in more extensive business activities, which increases the probability of workplace injuries, making the requirement for coverage more pertinent.

Additionally, understanding this minimum helps businesses comply with legal obligations and encourages them to create safer working environments, ultimately aiding in the overall welfare of employees.