What to Do if You Are Injured on the Job

You trip, you slip, you do a double flip. Accidents happen. But what do you do if you get hurt while at work? Follow these four basic steps to make sure you get the help you need.

Step 1: Alert your boss

The first thing to do when injured on the job is tell your supervisor. Even if you think, “I’m fine, I’ll shake it off”, don’t take chances. Injuries such as sprains may become worse as the day progresses. Stop what you are doing and address the problem.

Step 2: Record the Details

Immediately write down the answers to the questions below. Detailed notes will help you file a worker’s compensation claim later. Don’t rely on your memory. If you can’t write due to your injuries, ask a co-worker to help.

• Who witnessed the accident? Was anyone else hurt?
• What happened?
• When and where did the accident take place?

 

Step 3: Seek Medical Attention

Go to a qualified medical professional and get yourself checked out. Even if you feel that the injury “isn’t that bad,” have a doctor confirm that. Often minor injuries, if left untreated, can develop into significant problems. It’s also possible that your injury may be worse than you thought. Better to be safe than sorry. Be sure to keep any documents the doctor gives you pertaining to your injury for future reference and claims. And, follow the doctor’s orders for post-injury recovery.

Step 4: Get Support and Benefits

If you have a work-related injury, you may be entitled to:

• Reasonable costs for medical and like services,
• Weekly payments if you lose income or require time off work, and
• A lump sum payment if you have a permanent impairment.

 

Even if the accident was caused by you or it happened while you were performing your job, you may be entitled to worker’s compensation benefits. Contact your supervisor, union representative, or human resources department to learn how to file a claim and receive support.