Any time you are injured at work, it’s going to create a lot of anxiety. Like peeling an onion, there are layers of paperwork and procedures that must be addressed. It’s a whole different ball game than if you were hurt in your own home.
Due diligence is the best way to approach this situation and come out on top. Starting from the moment the accident occurs, there are some critical steps you must take (and not miss) to protect yourself, your health, and your job.
Here are the 10 things to do after an accident at work:
Most companies have a dedicated first aid officer who has been trained for the workplace. If no one is available, notify a co-worker immediately. They can help call an ambulance or find a supervisor.
Immediately file a report on the incident after you are stable. This should be with the person you report to or a manager.
Every business should have a logbook for workplace accidents and injuries. Even if your injuries seem minor, everything should be documented. If there is no book available, put it in an email to your manager.
RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) is the law that requires all employers to report injuries and keep records.
Make sure you take pictures of any injuries you have as soon as possible. Take video footage of your injury and the area as well. This is valuable and can be used as evidence if you file a claim.
Obtain witness details. You should have the contact information for anyone that saw what happened. If they have images, ask they share those as well.
This step is crucial because there are times when people might not think they are hurt that bad. Then, later on, when they realize the severity, those co-workers and witnesses are no longer around. So, collecting their data as soon as possible is recommended.
Depending on the accident and injury, you may need to visit the hospital or your general practitioner. Make sure you have documents from every single time you step foot in a healthcare facility.
You should explain the circumstances to staff as well, so they understand that you need accurate and consistent medical records. All recorded details will form a part of your medical evidence, should you file a claim.
Any expenses you incur from the accident should be noted. Keep all receipts and document any losses. This can include things like:
It might be a good idea to also keep a diary of your recovery, including all appointments you must attend.
You may be suffering financial losses, so it’s important to follow up with your employer to reexamine the benefits package of your contract. You are likely to be entitled to sick pay.
Once you have started to heal, it’s time to visit us at injury.com. It takes just three minutes to see if you have a claim. We’ll work with you and advise on the evidence required to pursue a claim and get you the compensation you deserve.
Laws are in place to protect employees should they get injured while at work. Your employer cannot simply dismiss the incident or sweep it under the rug. They are also not allowed to act in any way unjust toward you after the accident occurs.
It is absolutely critical you follow these steps after a work injury. These procedures will help to protect yourself should you have to file a claim in the future. It’s better to be prepared now, than scrambling then.
You have three years from the date of the accident to begin a claim for a workplace injury. If you are under 18, you have until your 21st birthday. Don’t hesitate on something you deserve. If you’re injured while working, you have every right to be made whole again.