Navigating WorkSafeBC procedures while addressing medical concerns stemming from a work-related injury or disability can be a demanding and stressful challenge.
The worker is required to report their injury promptly to their employer or supervisor. Subsequently, they should document all injuries and symptoms with their healthcare provider. Additionally, the workplace injury must be reported to WorkSafeBC. Although the legal deadline for reporting injuries to WorkSafeBC extends to one year, immediate reporting is highly advisable.
Eligibility Criteria for WorkSafeBC claims
In order to file a WorkSafeBC claim, the worker’s injury or illness must be work-related.
Steps to Take After Suffering a Workplace Injury
This article will break down the steps the worker must take after suffering a workplace injury.
Step 1: Report the Incident to the Employer/Manager
It is necessary to report your workplace injury immediately to your employer. A claim may be denied if there is a delay in reporting to the employer.
Step 2: Get First Aid and Document It
First aid in the workplace provides workers with prompt, easily accessible, and appropriate medical treatment. It is essential to seek medical aid right away, as it will help to have a record of the workplace injury and receive appropriate and timely treatment to prevent the severity of injuries. WorkSafeBC may decide whether to accept your claim on the basis of medical documentation; therefore, it is essential to report the details of how the injury occurred and symptoms to your doctor.
Additionally, keep detailed notes of the accident. The notes may include:
• a detailed description of the mechanism of injury (what happened?);
• dates and times;
• names of witnesses who saw the accident;
• the supervisor to whom you reported the incident/accident;
• the location of incident;
• health care visits;
• conversations with WorkSafeBC; and
• meetings with employer.
Step 3: Learn About Your Rights
It is fundamentally important for workers to be well-informed about their rights in the workplace. Understanding these rights not only ensures their safety but also empowers them to take necessary actions when required. Workers have three essential rights:
• The Right to a Safe and Healthy Workplace: This includes the right to refuse to perform tasks that are perceived as unsafe without fear of repercussion. It ensures that every worker can expect and demand conditions that do not pose a risk to their health or safety.
• The Right to Know About Hazards: Workers must be informed about potential risks and hazards in their work environment. This right ensures that employees are not only aware of the risks associated with their job but are also provided with the necessary training and information to handle these hazards appropriately.
• The Right to Participate in Health and Safety Activities: This allows workers to be involved in discussions and decisions that affect workplace health and safety. Participation can be through roles such as safety representatives or committee members, providing workers a voice in safety-related discussions.
Additionally, maintaining comprehensive records is crucial for safeguarding these rights. Keeping detailed records, including medical documentation, receipts for any treatments received, photographs of the accident scene, and copies of the accident report, can be invaluable. These documents serve multiple purposes, such as providing evidence in claims for worker’s compensation, helping to improve workplace safety by documenting hazards, and ensuring that all pertinent information is available for health and safety audits. Proper documentation supports a worker’s case in incidents of workplace injuries and is an essential practice for enforcing and protecting worker rights. Further information regarding workers’ rights and responsibilities can be found at WorkSafeBC.
Step 4: Recovery & Return to Work
Adhering to medical recommendations and prioritizing one’s health are paramount following a workplace injury. Effective communication with the employer regarding the recovery process is also beneficial. When it is medically safe, returning to work during the recovery phase can significantly enhance the injured worker’s mental and physical well-being. This gradual return not only helps in maintaining the worker’s income and employment benefits but also preserves important social interactions, daily routines, and job security. Such measures not only support the individual’s health and financial stability, but also facilitate a smoother transition back to normalcy and work life.
Importance of Taking Action after a Workplace Injury
It is crucial to respond proactively after sustaining any injury in the workplace, regardless of its severity. Promptly reporting the workplace injury not only safeguards the worker’s health by ensuring timely medical intervention but also enhances overall workplace safety by highlighting potential hazards. Moreover, this action plays a vital role in protecting the worker’s legal and compensation rights. By documenting the incident officially, the worker contributes to a safer work environment and ensures that proper protocols are followed, thereby securing their entitlements and supporting a culture of safety.
Why Choose Gosal & Company to Stay Protected
Give the workplace injury lawyers at Gosal & Company a call to schedule a free teleconference consultation appointment. Our workplace injury lawyers have over 31 years of experience and our team can assist you with navigating your claim. Gosal & Company is a law firm that is ready to stand with its clients to help protect their rights.
If you would like to schedule a telephone consultation appointment, please call us at (604) 591-8187. You can also send a private and confidential message using our contact form or an email to info@gosalandcompany.com.
