Reporting accidents at work is a legal obligation. Certain types of incidents must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). These regulations are in place to help improve health and safety in the workplace and reduce the number of accidents and incidents that occur.
What should be reported
One of the most serious incidents that must be reported is a fatality. If someone dies as a result of a work-related incident, it must be reported to the HSE immediately. Additionally, there are certain specified injuries that must be reported, such as fractures, amputations, and serious burns. Even if an injury doesn’t meet the criteria for immediate reporting, it must still be recorded to manage it appropriately.
Work-related diseases must also be reported under RIDDOR. These include conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, asthma, and certain types of cancer that may be caused by exposure to certain substances or working conditions.
In addition to injuries and illnesses, certain dangerous occurrences must be reported. These include explosions, collapses, and electrical incidents that could lead to serious injury or death.
How and when to report
It’s important to note that there are specific legal duties around how and when reports should be made. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in serious consequences. The HSE provides detailed guidance on the reporting process to help employers, and self-employed individuals understand their obligations and comply with the regulations.
Keeping accurate records of incidents covered by RIDDOR is also important. These records provide valuable information that can be used to manage health and safety risks and prevent future incidents. By using the information collected in incident records, employers can identify potential risks and develop solutions to prevent accidents and injuries from occurring. This helps improve workplace safety and control costs associated with accidents and other incidents.
In summary, complying with RIDDOR regulations is essential for any business or individual that wants to ensure a safe and healthy workplace. By reporting incidents and keeping accurate records, you can meet your legal obligations and protect your employees and your business from the potential risks and costs associated with workplace accidents and injuries.