Checklist of things to do after a work accident

Updated: 16 Oct, 2025
By Chris Salmon

If you have been injured at work, taking the right steps immediately afterwards can make a big difference to your recovery and your right to claim compensation. Use this checklist to help guide you through the process.

Work accident checklist

Step What to do Why it matters
1. Get medical help See a doctor or go to A&E immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Ensures your injuries are treated and creates a medical record that may be vital evidence later.
2. Report the accident Tell your employer or supervisor and make sure the details are entered in the accident book. This is a legal requirement for most workplace accidents and creates an official record.
3. Record what happened Write down how the accident happened, the time, date, location and conditions. Helps preserve important details while they are still fresh in your memory.
4. Collect evidence Take photos of the scene, keep damaged equipment, and note down witness details. Provides independent proof to support your claim if liability is disputed.
5. Track your recovery Keep receipts for prescriptions and travel, and make notes about pain levels and daily impact. Supports a claim for special damages covering out-of-pocket expenses and ongoing effects.
6. Seek legal advice Contact a solicitor to discuss your rights and the potential to make a claim. Ensures you get accurate guidance and avoid mistakes when dealing with your employer or insurer.

Can I claim compensation?

If your injury was caused by your employer’s negligence or by someone else who owed you a duty of care, you may be able to claim compensation.

Fin out more: Do I Have an Injury Compensation Claim?

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Get medical help ASAP, report your injury, take photos, note witnesses and ask for CCTV recordings. Keep receipts and a diary. Doing these basics early can really help your claim.

John Kushnick

Legal Operations Director
National Accident Law

FAQs

New to claims? Start with our work injury claim guide, or see the full work injury claim FAQs.

Do I have to report every accident?

Yes. Employers must keep an accident book and certain incidents must also be reported to the HSE under RIDDOR regulations.

What if I was partly to blame?

You may still be able to claim under the principle of contributory negligence. Compensation may be reduced but not removed entirely.

Do I need to see a solicitor immediately?

It is always best to get legal advice early, but your priority should be your health. A solicitor can advise you once you are stable.

Call now for free specialist advice

We'll put you straight through to an experienced work injury advisor:

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  • Check if you can claim
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If you decide to make a compensation claim, we'll connect you with the right solicitor.

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Work Accident Advice Centre (WAAC) a Claims Management Company regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Ref number: 835858). Registration is recorded on the FCA website https://register.fca.org.uk/. Calls are confidential and are handled by our partners at National Accident Helpline. Our privacy policy explains how we protect your data.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

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Last reviewed October 2025 by Chris Salmon