Workplace Injury Checklist: Steps After Getting Hurt at Work

Updated October 13, 2026 · 2 min read · 5 sources

Short answer

If you are hurt at work, get medical care first, then report the injury to your employer in writing as soon as possible, because workers' compensation has strict notice deadlines. Tell the doctor the injury is work-related, keep copies of every form and bill, write down witnesses, and follow up on the claim. Employers cannot legally retaliate against you for reporting an injury.

Workers' compensation claims succeed or fail on timing and paperwork. Use this list from the day of the injury.

Download the printable checklist (PDF): free, one or two pages, made to print and fill in by hand.

Right away

  • ☐ Get first aid or emergency care
  • ☐ Tell your supervisor the injury happened at work
  • ☐ Report it in writing and keep a copy with the date
  • ☐ Write down what happened, where, when and who saw it
  • ☐ Photograph the hazard, equipment or area if safe

Medical care

  • ☐ Tell every provider the injury is work-related
  • ☐ Ask your employer or the claims administrator which doctors you may use
  • ☐ Keep visit summaries, work restrictions and bills
  • ☐ Give work restriction notes to your employer

The claim

  • ☐ Get the claim number and adjuster's name
  • ☐ Keep copies of every claim form you sign
  • ☐ Track missed workdays and wage payments received
  • ☐ Save all letters, including any denial, and note appeal deadlines

Protect your rights

  • ☐ Keep a log of conversations with your employer and the insurer
  • ☐ Report unsafe conditions to OSHA if they are not fixed
  • ☐ Write down any discipline or schedule changes after you reported the injury
  • ☐ Talk to a workers' compensation lawyer if the claim is denied or delayed

Tips

  • Federal rules say employers must have a reasonable procedure for reporting injuries and cannot discourage reporting.
  • Federal employees use the Department of Labor's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs instead of state systems.

Official resources

This checklist is general information, not legal advice, and it is not a legal form. Rules and deadlines vary by state; a licensed attorney can tell you what applies to your situation. Find a lawyer near you.

Sources

  1. Cornell Law School LII: Workers' compensation
  2. Cornell Law School LII: 29 CFR 1904.35, Employee involvement (injury reporting rights)
  3. OSHA: Workers' rights
  4. OSHA: File a safety and health complaint
  5. U.S. Department of Labor: Office of Workers' Compensation Programs

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This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws differ by state and change over time; talk to a licensed attorney in your state about your situation.

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