If you receive a job site injury, it is vital that you take the correct steps to report the incident. Any injury, no matter how insignificant it may seem, must be reported promptly to avoid denial of benefits if a workers' compensation claim is later filed. Carefully documenting all details of the accident and all treatment received will help to protect you in the event that a claim is challenged or denied.
Report the injury to the proper department or individual. If you work for a large company you will need to contact the human resources department; at a smaller company you should inform the supervisor or manager in charge at the time of the incident.
2
Fill out a workplace injury report as soon as possible, preferably before you leave work for the day. Be very detailed in your description of the incident and the injuries. Obtain a copy of this report to keep in your own file.
3
Write down the names of any fellow employees who witnessed the accident.
4
Ask your employer for an examination by the company approved doctor. Even if your injuries don't seem very serious, it's important to be examined by a physician in case problems, such as those that may occur with a back injury, flare-up later.
5
Take photos of any visible injuries, even if they appear to be minor. These photos will be invaluable if a workers' compensation claim is later filed.
6
Provide your employer with all written instructions from the doctor regarding your work duties. Keep a copy of the notes for your own records as well.
7
Advise your employer of any ongoing treatment that you are receiving as a result of the injury, even if it does not affect your current ability to work.
8
Keep copies of any medical bills that you may receive due to the job site injury.
Tips & Warnings
If your employer has not filed a workplace injury report within seven days of the incident, contact your regional office of the Workers' Compensation Board and advise them of the situation.
Never sign anything agreeing not to file a workers' compensation claim.
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