What to Do After Being in an Accident at Work

Nobody expects to be in an accident. In some industries, there is an awareness of high-risk activities and more dangerous sectors, but it ultimately feels different when disaster strikes. Employees should understand the essential steps to take after a workplace accident, as these incidents can happen to anyone.

Immediate action is essential. Your primary concern is likely medical attention, but how you navigate these steps is equally vital should you decide to later seek compensation. These are the four steps to take after an accident at work.

 

Stay Safe and Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Safety always comes first. Immediately move away from the hazard (disabling or turning it off, if necessary). Administer first aid and call 999 for extra assistance if justified.

Never delay seeking treatment, as this might impact the prognosis of your injuries. Burns are notoriously important to treat immediately, but uncontrolled bleeding or wounds are also an infection and biohazard risk.

 

Report the Incident and Know Your Rights

It is easy to neglect your rights, even accidentally. However, everyone in the UK has a right to a safe workplace, protected by the Health and Safety at Work Act. Don’t be afraid of backlash; knowing that you’re protected by law is important when deciding to report the incident to management.

Have you heard of the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations? This mouthful of a name is shortened to RIDDOR and is a law that upholds mandatory reporting of major injuries or dangerous occurrences. Self-employed individuals should report incidents through RIDDOR instead.

 

What to Do If the Accident Involved Heavy Machinery

Heavy machinery accidents are particularly dangerous. Always stop the machine, isolate power, preserve the scene, and gather witness statements as soon as possible. These incidents are treated seriously, and individuals might wish to find professional support after a heavy machinery or plant accident.

 

Record, Reflect and Plan Your Next Steps

When an accident occurs, the immediate priority is providing medical treatment and keeping everyone on the scene safe. After this has been achieved, though, it’s important to begin recording the incident. Anyone impacted by an accident at work should keep a detailed personal record, including:

• When the accident occurred

• Where it occurred

• How it occurred

• The impact

 

If you’re injured as a result of the incident, you might be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay, and it’s important to keep these details for future legal protection.

Sometimes, it might be a direct result of negligence. These issues should often be addressed in the company’s risk assessments and procedures (for instance, through providing PPE training). If your employer doesn’t respond adequately or is at fault, then HSE can enforce action, and you can seek compensation.

Accidents at work are a scary concept. Follow these steps and keep yourself as protected as possible in the aftermath.