Q: I've injured myself at work. What do I do?
See your own GP No matter how minor or serious the work accident seems, always seek medical help. If there’s an immediate danger or serious injury at work, call 000 or ask someone to do it for you. Get a trusted work mate to help you out if you need.
Keep your own records of workplace accidents After an accident at work, or if you've been injured on the job, make sure you report it to your supervisor and make a record of it. If your company doesn’t have an official register or incident report for accidents, you should take time to detail what happened, where, how and any witnesses that were present. The record should be in your own words – don’t let anyone, including a boss, tell you what to write.
Complete your own paperwork After an accident at work, your supervisor may ask you to sign away an incident form or a completed WorkCover form. Never sign paperwork that you haven’t written yourself. If any forms need to be completed, make sure you are the one to fill them in and sign them. If your employer pressures you to sign paperwork that you’re not comfortable with, you can and should refuse. Talk to your union rep if you need advice on dealing with a difficult or pushy supervisor, or seek legal advice if needed.
What is the benefit of a claim and is it an easy process? In NSW, we have a "no fault system", this means you can slip on your own banana peel and still be able to claim. The benefit is simple, WAGES and MEDICALS are covered by the workers compensation insurer. All "reasonably necessary" medicals expenses are paid for by the insurer as well as weekly wages to assist while you recover.
Take your time after an injury at work If you need to take time off after being injured on the job, your GP will let you know. Always follow medical advice as this will help you heal faster. Rushing back to work can make an existing injury worse. You have to attend medical appointments and rehabilitation in order to help yourself get better. If WorkCover have arranged physio appointments, you should go.