As Bing Cosby once sang, accidents will happen after all. In some cases, there is no liability. But while at work, it is the employer’s responsibility to make sure you are safe in the workplace. If an accident does occur at work, it can be difficult to know how to handle it, especially if you enjoy your job and want to stay working there. So, what should you do if you suffer an accident at work?
What is a Personal Injury at Work?
As the list of types of personal injury claims shows, many can happen at work. For instance, travelling for work could result in a road traffic collision or accident. The workplace itself can also be conducive for accidents to occur – from spills on wet surfaces that haven’t been adequately cleaned or signposted, to trips over exposed wires. By definition, an accident at work is anything that occurs in the course of work that results in physical or mental occupational injury. Some claims, for instance, have been lodged for PTSD as a result of trauma developed in the line of work.
What to Do if You Suffer a Personal Injury at Work?
The first step once an accident has occurred is to log it. Most employers log everything, even minute paper cuts or the need to dole out paracetamol. Not only does this protect their liability, but it helps to give employees peace of mind that their employer is looking out for them. Once logged, and depending on the severity of the accident, this may then be reported to a higher health and safety body, such as the Health and Safety Authority (HSA).
When considering a personal injury claim, you may also want to enquire about sick pay or any remuneration as a result of being unable to work. Most claims involve some level of incapacity, at least for a short while, so it would be useful to check your contract or speak with HR to determine what your employer will do as you are unable to work. If this persists, it may also be useful to determine your rights beyond statutory sick pay, which is often a small amount.
If you are injured at work and it does cause physical or mental turmoil, you may then wish to make a claim. This means you will be requesting compensation for the distress or inconvenience, or even serious injury you have suffered. Usually, while claims are undergoing, employees don’t attend the workplace. Sometimes employers will want to settle quickly, but other times they may counter the claim and it will need to go to a higher body.
In all instances, it is best to seek advice both internally and also from independent bodies, such as from the Citizens Advice Bureau. Once the incident has been logged and any statements made, it is useful to keep a pain diary, consult a doctor, or be prepared to collect evidence about your ongoing situation. This could help in the event of the claim going further.
The most important thing to do when suffering a personal injury at work is to not panic. Follow the correct channels and be honest about how much the incident has affected you. Employers can be reasonable and if not, and if they are in the wrong, then the legal process will work to help ensure justice is dealt. Contacting a personal injury solicitor like Mccarthy + Co will be the next step to help your case.