The approach an employer adopts when responding to worker injuries is crucial in supporting your worker in recovering from a workplace injury. Employers’ efforts can either positively or negatively impact return-to-work outcomes including the time it takes for your worker to recover. Every workplace injury has unique circumstances and the ability of an employer to adjust their approach to each work/injury is also important.
Employer’s Approach
When a worker has a workplace injury, whatever the circumstances, employers are encouraged to provide empathy and support. Adopting a caring approach not only shows compassion, it also fosters trust and cooperation. It is recommended an employer’s response approach should incorporate:
- Care: responding promptly with empathy, helps demonstrate that your employee’s well-being is a priority
- Reassurance: reassuring your worker their injury will not affect their position within your business will help alleviate the fear of discrimination or other negative consequences arising as a result of their workplace injury
- Engagement: a supportive response encourages your injured worker to actively participate in their recovery and the return-to-work (RTW) process. Your worker’s engagement is essential for a smooth and successful rehabilitation journey
- Support: studies show a proactive and supportive response to workplace injuries is linked to enhanced return-to-work outcomes. By providing the right support from the start, you create a foundation for a quicker and more successful return to normal duties
By embracing our key approach principles, employers can take positive steps in creating a workplace culture that values employee well-being and fosters a sense of trust and cooperation when responding to workplace injuries.
Important First Steps
When an employer is notified of a workplace injury, it is important to take prompt and appropriate action to ensure the well-being of your employees and meet legal requirements. An employer’s immediate steps should include:
- Report to SafeWork: In the event of a serious injury/illness or a notifiable incident, immediate action is necessary. Notify SafeWork without delay. Timely reporting enables authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and implement any necessary safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future
- Notify Your Workers Compensation Insurer: Typically within 48 hours of becoming aware of a work-related injury or illness, an employer is required to inform your workers compensation insurer. Each state/territory has differences yet this step ensures that the injured worker receives the necessary support and benefits they are entitled to under workers’ compensation regulations
- Contact your Injured Worker: If you haven’t already, contact your injured worker to explain your return to work processes and the support you will provide them
By adhering to these procedures, you not only fulfil your legal obligations but also demonstrate your commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of your workforce. This proactive approach helps mitigate risks and fosters a culture of safety within the workplace.
Next Steps
In addition to the immediate actions required, there are several proactive measures employers can take to support their injured workers effectively:
- Offer Support and Information: Inform the injured worker that they will receive support throughout their recovery and return-to-work process. Provide clear guidance on how to make a claim and connect them with resources or individuals who can assist them throughout the process
- Empower Supervisors and Managers: Ensure that all supervisors and managers are trained to respond to injury reports with empathy and support, emphasizing the importance of providing reassurance regardless of the circumstances
- Involve the Worker in Decision-Making: Whenever feasible, involve the injured worker in decision-making processes, such as determining the need for medical advice or treatment options. This fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership over their recovery journey
- Follow-Up: Make arrangements to follow up with the injured worker at appropriate intervals, such as after they have sought medical attention or the following day. This demonstrates ongoing support and concern for their well-being
- Communicate Supportively: Ensure that messaging within the workplace conveys genuine concern for the injured individual and reaffirms the organization’s commitment to supporting them in their recovery
- Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your workers’ compensation specialists, such as ABILITY GROUP, with questions, concerns, or support needs you may have regarding the claims process or your role in supporting your injured worker
By implementing these proactive measures, employers can create a supportive environment prioritising the well-being and recovery of their injured workers, ultimately fostering a culture of safety and support within the workplace.
Need Help?
Contact our team of allied health and injury management specialists to ensure your worker receives professional support that helps minimise the business, people and financial impacts on your business.
Further Information
Source: SIRA
Title: Responding to a worker’s report of injury
Read time: 5-10 Minutes