When a workplace injury occurs, the aftermath can extend far beyond physical pain. Employees might worry about how they’ll provide for their families, pay their bills, or when they’ll be able to return to work.

For employers, the challenge lies in making sure the injured worker receives proper care while navigating the claims process. Let’s take a look at the actions that should be taken when a workplace injury occurs.

Immediate First Steps

Employers should have a clear protocol in place for reporting workplace injuries. This protocol should be communicated to all employees to ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of an injury.

When an employee is injured at work, it is important to report the injury to your workers’ compensation carrier. Prompt reporting ensures that the employee receives timely medical attention and that the claims process can begin without delay.

If an employee sustains a life- or limb-threatening injury, they should immediately seek medical care at the closest Emergency Room or call 911. Otherwise, they should be directed to your designated (in jurisdictions that allow direction of care) Occupational Medicine or Urgent Care provider to ensure they receive the appropriate medical care.

For non-emergency injuries where there is a question as to whether medical care is needed, or what level of care is best for the injury in question, ICW Group offers a Nurse Triage Hotline your employee can call to speak to a Nurse specializing in workplace injuries. This service is available 24/7, is available for any language, and will also serve as the first notice of loss to ICW Group with no additional calls needed to report a claim.

Creating a Claim

Employers should be contacted about the employee’s injury as soon as possible so that they can begin the claims process. Once informed, employers should submit a claim on behalf of the employee. If reporting to ICW Group, a claim can be submitted in a number of ways: the fastest way to submit a claim is online. You can also submit by email, over the phone (844 ICW CLAIMS), by fax (858 436 8916), or by mail (First Notice of Loss, PO Box 509039, San Diego, CA 92150-9039).

The claim form must be completed accurately and thoroughly. This form contains essential information about the injury, the employee, and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Once completed, it should be submitted to jurisdictional guidelines and your carrier’s reporting requirements. ICW Group policyholders can refer to this comprehensive step-by-step guide for more details about the claims process.

Employers are also responsible for meeting OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) requirements following a workplace injury. This might include recording the injury in OSHA’s Form 300 and completing any required reporting. Compliance with OSHA regulations is not only a legal requirement but also a crucial aspect of maintaining workplace safety and preventing future injuries.

Your claims adjuster will be a valuable resource throughout the claims process. It’s important to stay in close contact with them to ensure that you’re completing the required forms and that the process moves smoothly.

Understanding State-Specific Requirements

Workers’ compensation laws and requirements can vary significantly from state to state. This includes understanding what forms need to be completed, how they should be submitted, and any state-specific guidelines that must be followed.

ICW Group policyholders can visit the Injured Workers Center, a comprehensive online resource for injured employees that offers the most accurate information based on the state in which they’re working.

Accessing Benefits

Injured employees may receive payments for approved, necessary treatments or other charges related to medical care, including emergency room and doctor visits. If the employee is unable to return to work while recovering, they may receive temporary disability benefits, covering a portion of their wages. The amount they receive will be determined by state laws. Payments are typically issued bi-weekly, on a set schedule, until the employee’s doctor releases them to return to either modified or full duty work.

Supporting Your Injured Worker

Beyond the administrative and medical aspects, it’s essential to support your injured worker emotionally and practically. Injured employees often worry about their financial stability and their ability to return to work. Showing empathy and providing support can make a significant difference in the recovery process.

Here are some ways to support your injured worker:

  • Maintain Open Communication: Regularly check in with your injured employee to see how they are doing and offer any assistance they might need.
  • Provide Clear Information: Ensure they understand the claims process and what to expect in terms of medical treatment and compensation.
  • Offer Return-to-Work Programs: These programs help injured employees transition back to work, often through modified duties or a gradual return-to-work schedule.
  • Offer Encouragement: ICW Group offers On the Road to Recovery eCards that can be sent to injured employees as a way to send well wishes and an encouraging message as they make progress towards returning to work.

For more detailed information on supporting an injured worker, visit ICW Group’s Injured Workers Center.

We’re Here to Help

Workplace injuries can be challenging for both employees and employers. The physical pain is often accompanied by emotional stress and concerns about the future.

Remember, prompt reporting, documentation, and compassionate support are key to navigating the complexities of workplace injuries and workers’ compensation. ICW Group is here to guide our policyholders through every step, providing expert care and the assurance that you’re not alone in this process. At the end of the day, our goal is to create the best insurance experience possible and ensure that you have a better today and a safer tomorrow.