How To Deal With Workplace Accidents

With an increased focus on safety, accidents in the workplace are not a common phenomenon these days. However, accidents and injuries do happen from time to time. This article will cover the steps you must take if an employee becomes injured in the workplace. Without further delay, let's jump into it.

The Steps To Take In Case Of An Accident

Workplace accidents can happen unexpectedly, leaving employees unsure of what actions to take next. Knowing how to respond promptly and effectively can make a significant difference in the aftermath of an accident.

First of all and most importantly, if an employee becomes hurt or injured while on duty at work should be given prompt medical attention. 911 ought to be called in emergencies. Then consider taking these steps:

• • Move the employee(s) to a safe place to prevent further injury if necessary.
• • Follow the steps laid out in the company procedure when it comes to injuries and accidents in the workplace. Start one if you don't have it already, including fires and accidents.
• • Gather information and evidence (including photos) no matter the incident's seriousness.
• • Take statements from witnesses.
• • Review the situation to decide the severity of the incident. It will determine if a claim needs to be filed with the insurance company.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Heed the recommendations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA ensures employers provide employees with a safe and healthy working environment by enforcing and setting standards and delivering assistance, education, outreach, and training.

All severe injuries need to be communicated to the OSHA. Deaths must be reported within 8 hours, while severe injuries such as amputations, hospitalization, or eye loss need to take place within 24 hours. Incidents can be relayed to the OSHA by calling 800-321-6742 (available 24 hours a day) or online through the United States Department Of Labor website.

Insurance Claims Through The Workers' Compensation Insurance

Following the injury at work, the employer can claim workers' compensation insurance (also referred to as workers' comp insurance or workman's comp) for the employee or their family. It will help with:

• • The cost of medical treatment,
• • Payment for the loss of earnings, and
• • Offer death or disability benefits.

Do You Have The Workers' Compensation Insurance Scheme In Place?

Nearly all states in America require businesses to possess workers' compensation insurance. Prompt application is recommended as there is a time limit for claims which varies from state to state.

In States where it is a mandatory requirement, employers forgoing the Workers’ Compensation Insurance face fines. For instance, in Illinois, those companies without the insurance policy face a $500 daily fine. Even more worryingly, without coverage, businesses can be sued by employees who become injured while at work. These costs run into huge sums of money, it is prudent for every employer to take the steps to ensure they are covered.

Setting Up The Workers' Compensation Insurance Scheme

Workman's comp can be obtained from private insurance companies, state programs, or a combination of the two. Dealing with private accident insurance companies, it is best to check the various providers online for suitable packages. The cost of the coverage is based on factors such as the number of employees, the types of work carried out by the employees, state laws, and payroll size.

Ensure There Is No Confusion

Sometimes there is confusion over the workers' compensation insurance policy. Some employers believe the health insurance policies held by employees or the company's general liability insurance (GLI) will cover accidents and injuries. But GLI is used when the company causes injury or harm to a person or their property. On the other hand, a health insurance policy becomes invalid because the injury occurred through a person's employment.

When Is Insurance Not Required

No insurance coverage is required for independent contractors (such as truckers, for example). Additionally, there are certain employees for whom an employer does not need to carry insurance. It includes seasonal workers, agricultural workers, and domestic workers. These workers must deal with accidents through their own personal insurance coverage.

Injuries Away From The Workplace

Workers' compensation insurance will not cover any accidents away from the place of work. A workplace is a location where employees carry out tasks and jobs for their employer. It could be indoors, outside, or in client facilities. For a non-work injury such as an accident in the home, other forms of insurance, such as health insurance, must be utilized to obtain compensation.

Taking Care Of Your Employees

Thankfully accidents in the workplace are becoming less common over time. But unfortunately, they do occur occasionally. To protect employees' welfare, companies must hold Workers' Compensation Insurance. Thanks to these insurance policies, employees are given maximum protection in case of an unfortunate event.