Accidents at Work: What to Do If an Employee Is Injured On Site

It is not uncommon that from time to time an accident will occur at work. Hopefully you will only ever need to deal with a minor incident. However, big or small, the most important aspect of any accident in your workplace is to be well prepared. Make sure that you have a plan in action already in place and that you and your staff are regularly briefed on health and safety measures within your workplace. Below is a helpful guide in making sure you are well prepared in the event that an accident does occur:

Be prepared in advance

Make sure that you have adequate first aid facilities. This should include not only first aid equipment, but first aid training. Make sure to arrange first aid training for your staff, so that if a staff member is hurt, staff members are aware of what basic first aid treatment they should carry out. Ensure that a health and safety plan is in place for any accidents at work, and that all staff are fully aware of what they are required to do. There should be a clear plan of action in place which all staff members are aware of and know how to follow.

Immediate action following an accident

First, you need to determine how serious the accident is. If in any doubt, call for an ambulance or arrange to have your staff member taken to hospital. Do not take any chances with the health of your employees. If the accident is serious make sure that an ambulance is called for immediately and that the employee's next of kin is notified. Fill out an accident report form as soon as possible, detailing how the accident occurred, who was involved, and what steps were taken following the accident. Take photographs of the incident if at all possible and interview any employee who may have been witness to the accident. These details will help to protect you legally if there is any dispute involving the employee. If the accident is minor, then an official report does not need to be written. However, the accident should still be recorded in an accident log book. Record the details as soon as possible whilst still fresh in the mind of the employee and any witnesses. This will provide a useful record of events in case of disputes regarding compensation.

Adequate insurance

Adequate insurance is an absolute must. Make sure that you are well covered for any eventuality regarding an accident at work. Review your current insurance cover and assess if it covers you and your employee's well enough. It is always a good idea to review your insurance cover from time to time, so discuss with your broker what exactly your insurance covers you for.  Consider taking out an insurance package which includes not only business liability insurance, but income protection insurance in case of loss of earnings during a dispute. Taking out an insurance package may be more of an initially outlay for you financially, but in terms of peace of mind, it will prove to be invaluable.

Accidents can happen anywhere and this includes the workplace too, hence adequate insurance is a must regardless of whatever task an employee has to undertake at work. Visit Donnellys to buy comprehensive business package insurance for your business and workforce by clicking here.