4 things you need to know about the accident book

Accident Book and Accident Report – why are they so important after an accident at work? The entry in the book usually reveals what happened, the cause as well as any immediate treatment given.

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The primary evidence in such a case is the Accident Book and the accident report. Below, we explain 4 key issues.

1. Ensure an entry is made in the Accident Book

Every employer is obliged to maintain accident records. It is in the Accident Book that all information about the incident should be recorded – the causes, the course of events, and the consequences. You also have the right to a copy of this report.

The employer may ask you to sign the document. Before you do so, make sure that the content of the report fully corresponds to the actual course of the event. If you have doubts, ask for a translator or a trusted person to check the content. Sign the document only when you are certain that everything is correct.

When describing the accident, do so in detail and truthfully. Do not omit details or provide false information – the discovery of discrepancies could prevent you from obtaining compensation.

2. Always report the accident to your supervisor

Regardless of whether the injury is serious or minor – report the incident to your supervisor as soon as possible, preferably on the same day. Delaying such a report works against you, as the employer may deny that the accident ever happened. After the report, the employer is obliged to deal with the matter and record it in the documentation.

3. Post-accident investigation

Upon learning of the incident, the employer should conduct an investigation in accordance with Health & Safety regulations. The aim is to establish the causes and circumstances of the accident. All information should be entered into the Accident Book.

If the supervisor was not at the scene of the incident, the accident can be reported by phone or email. Importantly, even if you do not pursue your rights, the employer is still obliged to report the incident to the relevant authorities. In the UK, this is handled by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

4. When are you entitled to compensation?

Workplace accidents can happen unexpectedly and even without any deliberate wrongdoing they may still lead to injury. Employer are required to have insurance in place for these situations, any compensation you receive will be paid by their insurers as opposed to the employer directly.

Accident at work compensation is due if the accident was the fault of the employer, a co-worker, or someone from outside the workplace. A common cause of incidents is the disregard of safety rules by employers.

If the employer's fault can be proven, you have the full right to claim compensation. An entry in the Accident Book is the first step that facilitates the entire procedure and strengthens your case.

In summary – always ensure that the accident is recorded in the Accident Book, report it to your supervisor, ensure a thorough investigation is conducted, and make sure the report is accurate. This is the foundation in the fight for the compensation you are entitled to.