Learning what to do in case of an accident or emergency at work is typically part of training that you may think will not apply to you. Whether you think an accident will not happen to you or think you are careful enough, knowing what to do when there is an injury at work is essential information.
In addition to resolving your own injury, when you how to respond to an accident, you might be able to assist a coworker, as well.
Here’s what you should know if you or a coworker has experienced an injury at work.
Follow emergency procedures
Depending on what kinds of hazards you have at work, you may have detailed emergency protocols for dealing with an injury, such as:
- Emergency showers
- Eyewash stations
- Ventilation procedures
- Poison protocols
If you are unsure what to do, a manager or supervisor should give you directions for how to proceed.
Seek medical attention right away
In some instances, you will need to call an ambulance or other emergency medical technicians to assist you in your situation. For different situations, you may be able to stabilize your injury while you are at work.
Even if you can get your injury to a point where it feels better, it is still vital to seek professional medical attention. In some cases, it can take time to see the full extent of an injury and seeking care could help prevent further damage.
Talk to your employer about reporting
Regardless of the type of workplace, your employer will have a system for reporting workplace injuries, even if they are infrequent for your business. Once your condition is stable, talk to your employer about what reports you may need to make to get continued treatment.
If you need to miss work or will need an accommodation to continue working, you should also talk to your employer about a workers compensation claim. The claim may help you pay your medical bills and any missed work.