Workplace Injuries

According to Statistics Canada in 2007, Workplace injuries were reported in well over half a million Canadian Workers.

The blue collar jobs which usually involve much more physical labour are considered the riskiest of jobs because that is where an injury is more likely to happen. In a white collar office job the risks are fewer, but the potential dangers are still present.

workplace injury

What happens if you suddenly suffer a workplace injury? There are a variety of factors to consider and it will depend on the kind of work you do and the policy your employer sets out. In Canada, compensation for workers who are injured on the job as a result of what would be deemed a workplace accident is usually governed by a provincial insurance program. Most provincial programs are referred to as the Worker's Compensation Board. In Ontario, the program is referred to as the Worker's Safety Insurance Board. Employers pay premiums into these programs every single year based on the type of business they run and the number of employees.

If you are injured on the job, it is you responsibility to report your workplace injury to your manager as quickly as possible and seek medical attention if necessary. Your manager should be able to provide you with the appropriate direction to take and give you the necessary forms to fill out. The employer also has an obligation to investigate the incident since they are required to fill out paperwork at their end as well. Many places of employment have first aid trained staff. This way if immediate attention is needed then someone is on site to help with the training they have.

workplace injury

If the workplace injury is serious enough to warrant medical attention, immediately seek medical help. Some provinces require as part of the program that the employer provide the employee with transportation to a medical facility. In more serious cases where a life is in danger, your local emergency services will be called immediately.

Take the time as well to visit the website or local office of the respective provincial worker compensation organization. Reading up on what your rights and requirements are as well as the requirements of the employer could spare you significant stress in the long term.