What should I do if my employee is injured on the job in Pennsylvania?

If your employee is injured on the job in Pennsylvania, there are several steps you should take to ensure their health and safety, as well as to protect yourself from liability.

1. Provide immediate medical attention: The first priority should be to make sure the employee receives prompt medical attention. Call 911 if the injury is serious or send the employee to a medical facility if it is a minor injury.
2. Report the injury to your workers' compensation insurer: Pennsylvania law requires employers to carry workers' compensation insurance. It is important to report the injury to your insurance carrier as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in penalties, fines, or even criminal charges.
3. Complete necessary forms: After reporting the injury to your workers' compensation insurer, you will be required to complete a First Report of Injury form. This form provides information about the injury, the employee, and the employer, and is used to determine if the injury is covered by workers' compensation.
4. Investigate the accident: Once the employee's immediate needs have been met, conduct a thorough investigation of the accident. Take photos, interview witnesses, and review any relevant safety procedures or policies to determine if there were any violations or safety hazards that contributed to the injury.
5. Cooperate with the workers' compensation process: If the injury is covered by workers' compensation, you will need to cooperate with the claims process. This may involve providing medical records, allowing the employee to access necessary medical treatment, and providing documentation of the employee's wages and job duties.

Limitations and exceptions to this advice may vary depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the injury. For example, if the employee was injured while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may not be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. Similarly, if the injury was the result of intentional misconduct on the part of the employee, they may not be eligible for benefits.

If you have questions about how to proceed after an employee is injured on the job in Pennsylvania, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed attorney.