The Complete Checklist for Properly Reporting a Workplace Accident

November 5 2019 - In 2017, there were nearly 2.8 million workplace injuries and illnesses reported.

No matter how careful you or your employees are, there is bound to be some sort of incident that comes up at work.

But does your company have a plan for when these accidents happen?

Continue reading to discover what to do when a workplace accident occurs. Along with several tips on how to avoid accidents from happening in the first place.

1. Fill out a Workplace Incident Report

After taking care of the hurt employee, the very first thing that you should do is to fill out an incident report.

When filling out the incident report, it is best to be as accurate as possible. You should include the date, time, and location of the incident, along with an explanation of the injury or illness. Don't forget to identify everyone that was involved in the incident and where the injuries happened.

Try to explain as many details as possible about the injury. This will help the insurance companies figure out if you will receive workers' compensation pay.

For getting a consultation and help during all the process it’s better to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer who will be responsible to file a claim and will prepare all the necessary documents for it.

2. What If the Injury Happens over Time?

Sometimes, you won't realize you have a workplace accident or illness until further investigating.

Carpal tunnel is one of the most frequent injuries that happen at work. Unfortunately, many people don't realize that they have carpal tunnel until it is already affecting their work.

Once you know or think that the injury or illness came from the job, document it on an incident report. Even if you had minor symptoms previously, you don't need to fill out a form until you are sure that work is the cause.

Typically, you have 30 days to make a claim at work.

3. File Your Claim

After you have reviewed your employee injury report and checked it for accuracy, you will need to give it to your employer.

The employer will then fill out any missing or detailed information on their end. It will then be sent to a workers' compensation claim workers along with the state workers' comp board office.

They will contact you within a short period to let you know whether the claim has been accepted or not. If the claim has been accepted, they will be able to let you know the amount you will receive for workers' comp.

How to Help Prevent Accidents

There are many ways to prevent accidents in the workplace.

One of the most important ways to teach and inform your employees. You can post signs and encourage employees to follow safety guidelines and procedures.

Well-rested employees that aren't burnt out are also less likely to have an accident while working because they are more alert.

If you have followed the safety rules and are looking for legal representation, you can find a personal injury attorney to help out.

Are You Prepared for the Next Workplace Accident?

You can never be too prepared for a workplace accident.

There are many things you can do to prevent incidents. Informing employees and posting safety guidelines, is a great way to prevent them. It is important to be detailed and thorough when filling out an employee injury report.

Don't forget to send over your claim, along with any other information for the insurance companies.

Be sure to check out our blog for more articles on human resource practices so that you are prepared for any workplace accident.

More Health-Related Articles