ACCIDENT REPORTING – INJURY ON DUTY – DON'T DELAY

While reviewing accident reports I have found that there have been occasions when an injured worker has delayed notifying his/her supervisor about an accident. In some cases this is due to a situation where an accident at the time did not appear to cause an injury requiring medical attention and only later did the injured worker realize that in fact the there was some damage done. In one situation, the effects of an accident did not become apparent for many months afterward.

An important rule to observe is that you always report an accident without delay.

If your immediate supervisor is not available, contact someone else in management to report the incident. Make note of any and all witnesses to the accident. Even if the accident does not warrant immediate medical attention, be sure to report it so it is documented.

To avoid problems with Worker's Compensation claims, it is essential that any of us injured on the job reports any incident promptly and thoroughly.

Please also be aware that even “near miss” accidents should be reported and documented. This is valuable for the health and safety committee in identifying hazards and solutions to unsafe situations.

In Solidarity,

Terry Zahorski

2 nd Vice-President (co-chair LJHSC)

Regina Local CUPW