Steps to Take After Suffering a Work Injury

Seek Medical Attention

Prioritising your physical and mental health following a workplace incident is the first step you need to take. Always keep all documentation, as you will need it later for a claim. A solicitor who works with accident at work claims will also advise you to seek medical attention to get the care you need and document your injuries immediately after an accident at work.

Report the Accident

Likely, a co-worker has already notified your employer of the accident; however, you need to report the accident firsthand as soon as you can do so. Use the in-place reporting protocols you learned during your new hire seminar or accident reporting manual. Ensure your employer takes the necessary and legally required steps to further report the incident to maintain compliance.

Gather Evidence and Document the Accident

Documenting the incident may seem like a priority over seeking medical attention, but it is not. It is important, however. Always take care of your medical needs first. If a trusted co-worker is on the scene when the accident occurs, task them with taking photographs and videos and collecting the names and contact information of any witnesses. Ask the witnesses to document what they saw or take a video account of their experience. When you are able to return to work, you should do the same, assuming too much time has not passed or evidence of the accident has been cleaned up.

Contact a Solicitor

Now is the time to connect with a solicitor experienced in workplace injuries and accidents. They can offer specialised services related to any workplace injury claims you may file and guide you through the process to ensure your rights are respected. The medical care and witness accounts will become valuable during this step so your solicitor can compile the necessary information to file a claim on your behalf.

Keep Detailed Records

You must keep a detailed record of the symptoms that resulted from your work injury. This should include medical records and information on how you have been impacted in your daily life. Also, maintain a diary of losses or expenses incurred because of the incident. This will help your solicitor build a claim and aid in determining a financial compensation request.

Prepare to Return to Work

Once you have healed and your medical professional clears you to return to work, you will need to ensure the work environment is safe. You may feel some anxiety and stress about going back and should seek professional help to deal with your feelings if appropriate.

Watch this short video to learn how to manage your anxiety at work.