What does the term "compensable injury" refer to?

The term "compensable injury" refers specifically to an injury that fulfills the criteria established by workers' compensation law for an employee to receive benefits. In order for an injury to be compensable, it generally must occur in the course of employment, arise out of employment, and be related to the work being performed. This definition is crucial because it ensures that workers are protected for injuries sustained in the workplace or during work-related activities, which is the fundamental purpose of workers' compensation.

When evaluating the other options, an injury caused by negligence does not automatically qualify as compensable; it must meet specific legal criteria beyond the circumstances of its occurrence. An injury that does not require medical treatment typically does not meet the threshold for workers' compensation, which often involves consideration of the necessity and extent of treatment. Lastly, an injury that occurs outside of work hours usually does not qualify for benefits since it is not considered to arise in the course of employment. Thus, the correct answer highlights the importance of adhering to legal definitions and requirements within the workers' compensation framework.