Did you know that a person is injured at work once every 7 seconds? That equates to 12,600 injuries a day or a whopping 4,600,000 per year.

Some of the most common workplace injuries include sprains, strains, tears, back pain, cuts, and lacerations. The majority of injuries at work are caused by:

• Overexertion

• Being struck

• Caught or crushed by equipment

• A slip and fall accident

If you have had an accident at work, you will know that it can be a very distressing and confusing time. Many employees do not know what they are supposed to do when they become injured at work or who they can turn to for support.

Fortunately, the below article will tell you everything you need to know about suffering an accident at work, so keep reading, as you never know when it could happen to you.

1. Get medical help

If you believe that your injury is only a minor one, you may be tempted to forgo medical treatment and simply try to carry on with your working day. This is a mistake. Not only could your injury be more serious than you initially think, with the possibility of it causing you long term damage if left untreated. However, it is also vital that you have your injury assessed and recorded in case you need to file a personal injury compensation claim at a later date.

Your first port of call should be your company’s first-aider, who will be able to check you over and see if you require further medical assistance. If you do have to go to the hospital, make sure that a work colleague attends with you.

2. Report the accident to your colleague and your manager

It is vital that you tell your colleagues and your manager if you have an accident at work. Alerting your colleagues is important for two reasons. Firstly, so that they do not fall victim to the same accident as you did. Secondly, if you do decide to make a compensation claim with a trusted personal injury law firm such as RCK Accident LAW FIRM, your employer will not be able to deny that your accident ever happened.

Informing your manager is also crucial, as it is likely to be part of your organization’s accident protocol. You could be in breach of your contract if you do not tell them about any accident you have had while at work.

3. Collect evidence

Depending on the severity of your injuries, this may be easier said than done. However, if you do make a claim for compensation in the future, having photographic or video evidence can massively support and strengthen your case.

Try to take as many photographs or videos as possible. As a general rule, if you think it may be useful, film it. There is no such thing as too much evidence.

4. Keep a record of your health

While an injury may seem minor at the time, it could potentially turn into a long term debilitating condition that has a severely detrimental impact on your life and your ability to work. Therefore, it is vital that you keep a written record of your symptoms following your accident at work and that you follow up any pain or ongoing issues with either your doctor or another medical professional.

5. Stay positive

Falling victim to an accident at work and dealing with the subsequent injuries can take its toll on you physically and mentally. No-one is prepared to feel vulnerable in their working environment, and it can be challenging to return to your position.

Try and stay positive and lean on any trusted work colleagues for support at this difficult time.