My Employee Just Got Injured on the Job - Now What?

Workplace injuries are an unfortunate reality for businesses, and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in recovery for the injured employee and your business. In 2022, 2.3 out of every 100 workers were injured on the job, amounting to 4.53 million medically-consulted injuries.* These numbers highlight the importance of having a clear plan of action when workplace injuries occur.

What Injuries Should Be Reported?

It's important to report any workplace injury, even if it seems minor at first. Some injuries can escalate over time, so immediate documentation and response are essential. Common workplace injuries include:

• Slips, trips, and falls

• Lifting/overexertion injuries

• Motor vehicle accidents (while driving for work purposes)

• Cuts, scrapes, or burns

Workplace injuries can vary significantly depending on the nature of your business. For example, construction workers may face risks such as falls from heights or equipment-related injuries, while office workers might be more prone to repetitive strain injuries or slips in common areas. Tailoring your safety protocols to address the unique risks in your industry is crucial.

What Should You Do When an Employee Is Injured?

When an injury occurs, your response can impact not only the recovery of the injured employee but also the overall safety culture of your workplace. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Act Fast. Prioritize the injured employee’s well-being by providing immediate medical attention. If it's a severe injury, call 911 or arrange transport to the nearest hospital. For less critical injuries, ensure the employee gets medical care promptly to avoid complications.

2. Document the Injury. Thorough documentation is vital for addressing the injury and preventing future incidents. Take photographs, collect witness statements, and ask coworkers and managers to help reconstruct the scene. This information is essential for filing accurate workers’ compensation claims and conducting safety reviews.

3. File a Workers' Compensation Claim. Promptly report the injury to your workers' compensation insurer. This ensures the injured employee gets the necessary medical care and wage replacement benefits as quickly as possible. Timely filing also reduces the risk of disputes and preserves the accuracy of incident details, which can be critical for claim processing.

4. Conduct an Investigation. Understanding the root cause of the injury helps prevent similar incidents. Review witness accounts, medical documentation, and any safety protocols that may need improvement. Use this investigation as an opportunity to enhance your workplace safety measures and demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment.

5. Communicate with Your Team. After an incident, it’s essential to keep the lines of communication open. Let your team know about any changes or reinforcements in safety protocols, and encourage them to share concerns or suggestions. A collaborative approach can foster a culture of safety and accountability.

How to Prevent Workplace Injuries

While responding to workplace injuries is critical, prevention is the ultimate goal. Here are some tips to reduce the likelihood of injuries at work:

• Conduct regular safety training. Keep employees informed about safety best practices and procedures tailored to your industry.

• Perform routine safety audits. Identify and address potential hazards before they lead to injuries.

• Encourage open communication. Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting safety concerns or near-misses without fear of repercussions.

• Provide proper equipment. Ensure all tools and equipment are well-maintained and appropriate for the tasks being performed.

How Acuity Supports Injured Employees and Employers

Acuity understands the challenges businesses face when an employee is injured and offers comprehensive workers’ compensation insurance to support both the employee and the employer:

• Medical Coverage. We cover medical expenses related to workplace injuries, ensuring your employee gets the care they need without financial stress.

• Wage Replacement. Injured employees who are unable to work receive wage replacement benefits, allowing them to focus on recovery without worrying about lost income.

• Return-to-Work Support. Our programs help employees recover and reintegrate into their roles faster, minimizing downtime and helping you maintain workforce stability.

• Commitment to Safety. Acuity partners with businesses to identify potential risks and implement proactive measures to reduce the likelihood of workplace injuries.

By having a clear plan in place and leveraging the right insurance coverage, you can protect your employees and your business from the challenges of workplace injuries. Want to learn more about creating a safer workplace or ensuring you have the right coverage? Contact us at Acuity—we’re here to help!

*Source: National Safety Council