Here is a checklist of steps to take in the event of a workplace injury. Remember that every state has different compliance procedures.
- Know the names and phone numbers of Department Contacts for questions related to employee safety and workers’ compensation.
- Have a comprehensive Injury and Illness Prevention Plan that relates to the types of injuries and illnesses most common in your area/type of work. Contact OSHA for more information about this.
- Have an Emergency Treatment Plan to ensure that any employee who is injured or becomes ill receives prompt and proper medical care at, or near, the worksite. Your insurance carrier can assist you.
- Accompany the injured employee to the doctor, if medical treatment is needed. Ask the doctor about the employee’s ability to return to work.
- Provide the injured employee with available information on employee claim forms for workers compensation benefits within 24 hours of knowledge of the injury or illness. Your insurance carrier can assist you.
- Submit a completed Employer’s Report of Occupational Injury or Illness to your claims management coordinator or insurance claims representative.
- Maintain regular contact with your employee during his/her period of recovery. Encourage co-workers to do likewise.
- Minimize the employee’s time off work by creating transitional limited or modified duty assignments to facilitate return to work as soon as it is medically feasible.
The information and forms contained in this feature are intended to provide useful information on the topic covered, but should not be construed as legal advice or a legal opinion.