Which term refers to a lasting impairment from a workplace injury that affects an employee’s work ability?

The term that refers to a lasting impairment from a workplace injury that affects an employee’s work ability is permanent disability. This condition indicates that the worker has sustained a permanent reduction in their ability to perform work-related tasks due to an injury or illness incurred in the course of employment.

Permanent disability can impact an individual's capacity to return to their previous role or any other work, affecting their earning potential and quality of life. It is important in the context of workers' compensation as it often leads to different benefits and considerations than temporary conditions or disabilities.

In contrast, the other options represent different concepts. Temporary disability refers to a short-term condition where an employee cannot work but is expected to recover fully and return to their job. Occupational hazard signifies a risk inherent to a particular job or profession that could lead to injury or illness. A work-related injury describes injuries that happen at work, but it does not specify the lasting effects or permanent nature of the impairment.