If you are injured at work or contract an illness due to your work duties, you need to report the case to your employer. It’s vital to be careful about how you report the matter.
Here is what to know:
Report as soon as possible
Timing is crucial when it comes to reporting a work injury or illness. Consider notifying your employer of the injury immediately, if possible, before leaving the office. In the case of an illness or an injury that developed gradually, notify your employer as soon as you learn or believe your job caused it.
In California, you may lose your right to receive workers’ compensation benefits if you fail to report an injury within 30 days.
Provide an in-depth report
When informing your employer about your injury or illness, you need to be detailed. Tell them about:
- The date or time of the accident/event or when you noticed the first symptoms of the illness
- The location of the accident
- The nature of your injury/illness
- Witnesses present at the accident site
- The description of the accident
Your employer will forward these details to the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), commonly known as Cal/OSHA.
Why should you report an injury/illness sooner?
Besides protecting your rights to receive workers’ compensation benefits, reporting an injury or illness sooner allows you to get medical attention. Not receiving treatment on time can worsen your condition.
If you need emergency treatment, you can report the case to your employer afterward. Ensure you inform the healthcare provider that your injury is work-related.
A work-related injury or illness can significantly affect your ability to meet your needs. That’s why you need to understand your options and rights.