Step 1
Ensure you and others are safe and not going to cause any further damage/injury. This can include simple things such as receiving first aid & stopping any further lifting etc.
Step 2
Report the incident to your OHS representative/employer. Regardless of whether an injury is minor or severe, you should always report and document your injury/incident. This enables a workcover claim to be lodged if necessary and provides an opportunity for the workplace to implement changes and reduce the risk of a similar injury/incident reoccuring. The documentation will also serve as a legal document if required.
Step 3
Contact your GP for primary or follow up care. If a workcover claim has ben commenced they will be able to provide a certificate of capacity which will act as your legal restrictions/requirements for work capacity.
Step 4
Follow up care with other allied health/medical professionals (e.g. psychology, physiotherapy). This step will allow the healing and rehabilitation of the body & mind to get back to work in a safe and structured way.
Step 5
Returning to work - there should be strategies and modifactions in place as needed. You should build up your hours and duties within the guidelines discussed and agreed upon with your GP/health professional.
In summary:
1. Remove yourself & others from danger/risk from further injury
2. Record/document the incident
3. Seek primary care - GP
4. Seek further treatment or advice if needed
5. Get back to work in a safe and suitable way
This article provides general advice only, and is designed to give a brief outline of what could be done to help recovery and return to work following an injury.