The top steps you should take if you are planning to make a claim for a workplace accident

David Banks
Authored by David Banks
Posted Wednesday, June 24, 2020 - 6:00am

There are many occurrences in any workplace which are unforeseen and unwarranted, and when something occurs, the workplace and its workers should be well-equipped to deal with the circumstance, whatever it may be. But when an accident in the workplace occurs and it has happened due to negligence, improper training or a lack of training, the use of faulty equipment, improper work practices, and it has resulted in an injury to your person, then you can perhaps be eligible for a workplace compensation claim. But if you are thinking of making a claim, there are certain things you can do to help your claim and make it a success. Here, then, are the top steps you should take if you are planning to make a claim for a workplace accident.

General tasks you can and should do

Having a record of your workplace accident will be inherently useful for your case, not just because you may want compensation, but also because it can help you claim benefits that include SSP or statutory sick pay. Along with this, it would be in your best interest to take photographs of your injury and whatever equipment, machinery, or other item caused your workplace accident (such as a wet floor). Make sure that you have the contact information of anyone who was a witness to your workplace accident, and take down notes about your workplace accident right away. Include a drawing if this will help you show the exact scenario. If you can, ask any witness to take down notes as well.

Reporting your workplace accident

When you report your workplace accident, who you will present the report to will depend on where you were when the accident occurred. It will also depend on whatever your status is – whether you are a regular employee, self-employed, etc. If you cannot report the workplace accident yourself, you can ask someone you trust to report it for you.

If you were in your regular place of employment when the accident happened, you should report it right away to your manager or another figure of authority, as confirmed by the experienced solicitors from http://shireslaw.com. If you are a self-employed individual and the accident occurred while you were on your business premises, report it to the HSE or Health and Safety Executive.

If the accident occurred somewhere other than your usual workplace and you’re a worker or employee, you should report the accident to your direct supervisor as well as the manager. If you are self-employed and are at the premises of a client, report it to the person you often deal with while you are there.

An organisation or company with over ten workers or employees should have an accident book where your accident should be recorded. If the company doesn’t have an accident book, note down the details of the accident and submit them to your manager.

Seeing a medical professional

It’s also in your best interest to see a medical professional as soon as you can so they can make a record of your injury and treat it as best as possible.

Making a claim for a workplace accident isn't as difficult or challenging as many people may think - what you need to do is speak with an expert solicitor who can handle your case and work on a No Win, No Fee basis as well.

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