Workplace accidents may happen even in the safest facilities and with cautious employees. You may sustain injuries due to faulty machines, electric hazards, falling objects, or slips and falls. The worst part is that it could happen due to your employer’s negligence over the safety norms. At times, mishaps are completely avoidable. Whatever the cause, a workplace accident can be traumatic.
The injuries can be painful, with a long road back to recovery. You may even lose your capacity to work, and the situation hurts your confidence and mental well-being in the long run. Reporting workplace accidents is vital, and the sooner you do it, the better. Here are some reasons to inform your employer about the mishap sooner than later.
Get immediate medical attention
Not reporting a mishap is the worst mistake you can make as it deprives you of immediate medical attention. You may avoid doing it when there are no physical signs such as pain, wounds, and bleeding. But an underlying injury like internal bleeding or organ damage can get complicated or fatal before you know it. You must report the accident right away and seek medical attention to get on the road to recovery.
Ensure better investigation
Informing your employer about a mishap is crucial as it ensures better investigation of the lapse in safety. There is always a chance of losing a key piece of evidence and employee testimonies when an investigation is delayed. Early information means quick action because most employers are more than willing to investigate. They are legally required to do it, so you must let them know the entire situation.
Support your compensation claim
Workplace safety is an employer’s responsibility, so they are liable for a mishap on-premises and during work duties. As an employee, you could make a compensation claim against your employer after a mishap. But everything boils down to proving that the accident actually happened. Moreover, you have to establish your injuries and trauma caused due to the accident. The best way to stay ahead with these facts is by reporting the incident without delays.
Follow the company rules
Most companies have some policies and rules governing workplace accidents. Not following them can deprive you of compensation and even let a negligent employer go free despite a slack approach toward worker safety. You must go through the employee rulebook and understand the reporting procedure thoroughly. Stick to the timelines to ensure you get the compensation and assistance you rightfully deserve.
Prevent future mishaps
Most workplace mishaps are preventable, provided employers take appropriate measures on time. Informing them about a mishap can bring attention to overlooked safety issues and negligent misses. Consider it your personal responsibility to prevent similar accidents in the future and ensure the safety of your co-workers. Pick every small detail and let your employer know about the risks that need to be taken care of.
While employees should report accidents immediately, employers must act on them right away. Dealing with safety risks is crucial to ensure premises safety and worker well-being.
