There are few things more concerning than a workplace injury. The physical pain and limitations of the injury itself seem daunting, affecting your ability to work and perform daily tasks. In this blog, we will discuss steps you can take to manage your recovery and get safely back to work.
Step #1: Report Any Workplace Injury to Your Supervisor and Employer Immediately
The sooner you tell your employers about your injury or condition, the faster you can get the help you need and avoid any potential complications. In many cases, there are strict timelines for reporting workplace injuries.
So, make sure you follow your company’s guidelines and file your Worker’s Claim for Compensation forms within 30 days to receive all the benefits and compensation you are entitled to. Being timely will also help reduce the mental and emotional stress you may experience.
Step #2: Seek Medical Attention if You Are Injured at Work
Even if your injury seems minor at first, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Certain injuries may worsen over time if left untreated.
You will also need documentation of your injury from a medical professional when filing for workers’ compensation or other benefits.
Depending on your specific injury, it is important to visit the nearest hospital emergency room or a healthcare facility, such as WorkPartners Occupational Health.
Step #3: Follow Your Healthcare Provider’s Plan of Care
Once you have sought out medical attention, follow your doctor’s orders closely. This may include restrictions on certain activities, along with treatments and therapies to aid in your recovery. By following these instructions, you will be better prepared to return to work safely and avoid further injury.
Your healthcare provider will also help you and your employer determine a return to work plan that outlines any restrictions you may have or accommodations you will need to perform your job tasks. These restrictions or accommodations may include:
- Working fewer hours for a specified period of time
- No heavy lifting
- Taking extra breaks from job tasks as needed
- Modifying production goals
Step #4: Communicate Accurately and Frequently with Your Employer
Keep your employer informed about your injury and any limitations it may cause. This will allow your employer to accommodate your needs and provide a safe working environment for you.
The company may also need to complete additional workers’ compensation forms and make arrangements for your absence from work.
Step #5: Know Your Rights About Being Injured at Work
As an employee, you have the right to receive benefits if you are injured on the job. These benefits can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and disability payments.
Familiarize yourself with your company’s policies now—before injury at work—so you know what benefits you may be entitled to.
Step #6: Do Not Rush Recovery and Return to Work Too Soon
Recovering from any work-related injury or condition takes time. You must be patient with yourself and your rehabilitation time.
Studies show that overexertion, limited body reaction to actions and circumstances in the workplace, and repetitive motion account for numerous workplace injuries. So, as you go through the recovery process, think about ways to work smarter:
- Take all scheduled breaks
- Ask for help if and when you need it (with lifting for instance)
- Follow all established guidelines for worker safety
- Keep a neat workstation to avoid slips and falls
When you do return to work after an injury, use your work-smarter practices. Talk to your employer about ways to keep all employees safe on the job.
Let WorkPartners Occupational Health Help if You Are Injured at Work
Get the medical evaluation and treatment you need for workplace injuries. At WorkPartners Occupational Health, we help all parties involved in workplace injury—the employer, employee, and the workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
We know how to help injured workers recover, get back to their jobs, and resume earning their livelihoods. Our physicians are Level II accredited with the State of Colorado’s Division of Workers’ Compensation.
Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer in the Grand Junction, Co, area. Call (970) 241-5585 or request a visit here. We are conveniently located directly across from St. Mary’s Medical Center. We look forward to serving you!
