When a worker is injured on the job, there are investigations that must be handled both in a timely fashion and under proper execution. These investigations are not only important for the worker to file for benefits or seek medical care; they are also crucial in preventing future incidents. By learning from workplace injuries, workplaces can make an effort to make precautions to avoid further injury.

For both purposes, there is a certain way to approach these investigations that is helpful for everyone involved.

Immediate Risk

The injured worker should be cared for first and foremost before handling anything else. This includes first aid and calling for help. Further, the area in which the incident took place should be blocked off and only important people should be in the areas. Only when the area is deemed safe and proper documentation has been done should anyone be allowed back in the area. The incident should then be reported to the occupational health and safety board before filing the claim.

Evidence

At the scene, evidence should be collected. This includes the worker’s position and location, damage to equipment, safety devices that were used, what training was provided and which procedures were used or ignored, along with any noise, lighting, cleanliness and weather details at the time of injury. This provides key information or determining the cause of the accident for both filing and future safety use.

Interview Witnesses

Anyone who was near or part of the incident must be interviewed. This is to get information about the accident as it occurred from many people and perspectives in order to piece the details together. Questions such as where they were during the accident, what they were doing, what was heard or seen, what they believe caused the accident, if there were any environmental conditions that could have influenced the accident, what the injured worker was doing, and how they believe a future incident could be avoided. These questions give a clear view of what happened along with getting real-life suggestions for safety precautions from those that saw what happened. After the interviews, all findings should be reported as required by law.

Action

Once the cause has been identified, it’s time to do something with those findings. Some actions that can be taken include repairs, training, new procedures, new safety signs or equipment, and replacement of any faulty parts that may have led to injury.

If you have been injured at work, contact our team today. We have years of experience handling workplace injuries and will fight to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.