When someone suffers a workplace injury, both workers and supervisors should take critical steps to ensure the health and safety of all involved. Proper handling of workplace injuries helps prevent future accidents, maintains a positive work environment compliant with OSHA standards, and ensures Workers’ Compensation claims proceed smoothly. Here are five actions to take after a workplace injury
Seek Medical Attention for the Injured Person Immediately
Workplace supervisors should secure the accident scene and seek medical attention for the injured party right away. Cordon off the area where the injury occurred and keep all unnecessary personnel away.
Secure any spills or other possible hazards. Designate one person to take photos of the scene if possible.
For very urgent and life-threatening injuries, call 911 for help. For less urgent matters, select a healthcare provider from the employer’s designated provider list. Make an appointment for medical evaluation and treatment as soon as possible.
Even if the workplace injury seems minor, have a trained medical professional assess the situation and treat the employee. This ensures that the injured individual receives necessary care. Also, it creates documentation for Workers’ Compensation insurance claims. Additionally, it facilitates proper reporting to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration if needed.
Notify a Supervisor or Manager
As soon as an injury occurs, notify a supervisor or manager immediately. This person should be informed of the details surrounding the accident, including any possible contributing factors or hazards which may have played a role.
This information can help prevent similar incidents from happening again. Plus, it will assist the company administrators in filing Workers’ Compensation insurance claims. In fact, workplace injuries must be reported in writing right away in the state of Colorado–no longer than 10 days after the accident.
Document All the Details Surrounding the Injury and Its Onsite Treatments
Documentation is crucial in the event of a workplace injury. Workers must keep records of any medical treatments received, as well as any communication with supervisors or managers regarding the incident. Gather witness statements if possible.
Follow up with All Medical Appointments
After receiving initial treatment, workers should follow through with any recommended or necessary medical appointments. This facilitates good healing and recovery of physical function. Plus, it creates a detailed record of injury, as well as medical and functional progress.
If the injured party does file a Workers’ Compensation claim, he or she must do so within two years of the injury. Treatment for that injury continues until what the Department of Labor and Employment calls the Maximum Medical Improvement.
Develop a Detailed Return-to-Work Plan
A return-to-work plan is so important to the injured person, his or her coworkers, and the workplace itself. After Maximum Medical Improvement, the healthcare provider will determine if the injured person is fit to return to work and, if so, what job duties will look like.
A customized return-to-work plan will include input from both the employer and employee. This plan involves discussing task modifications or workstation accommodations needed for the returning employee.
It is also important to monitor the progress of the injured employee upon return to work. Regular check-ins and communication between all parties involved can help ensure a smooth transition back into the workplace.
Sadly, a workplace injury sometimes results in a permanent disability. In these cases, employers must work closely with their insurance providers and legal counsel to provide appropriate compensation and support for the affected employee.
Injured at Work Services in Grand Junction, CO
Work Partners Occupational Health is your go-to Workers’ Compensation medical facility. We help both injured workers and employers with comprehensive medical care, documentation, and facilitation of insurance claims. All of these are so important to a successful return to work.
Our onsite services include initial injury assessment, treatment and rehabilitation plans, as well as regular follow-up appointments to track employee progress. We also provide assistance with necessary paperwork and communication with insurance carriers.
Learn more about how WorkPartners Occupational Health serves both employees and employers in their times of need. Call us at (970) 241-5585 or request an appointment here.
