Five things you need to record when an injury happens at your workplace

When you suffer an injury at work, the moment can feel chaotic. You try to process what happened, deal with the pain and decide who to tell first. In that confusion, you may overlook key details that later help you explain the incident clearly and protect your rights.

Strong evidence gives you confidence when you speak to your employer, a medical professional, or a legal adviser when seeking accident at work compensation. It also supports any claim you make by showing exactly what occurred, why it happened and how it affected your life. By gathering the right information early, you avoid uncertainty and give yourself the best chance of a fair outcome.

The timeline and task details

Capture the sequence of events as soon as you can recall it. Note what task you carried out, the equipment you used and the exact moment things went wrong. You build a useful record when you describe each step, such as the instruction you followed, the movement you made or the hazard you encountered. This approach helps you avoid gaps that weaken your account later. Aim to write down your recollection once you feel calm enough to focus.

People involved and witnesses

Identify everyone who saw the incident or interacted with you immediately before or after it. A witness often gives clarity that strengthens your version of events, especially if your employer later disputes what happened. Speak to colleagues who stood nearby, supervisors who issued instructions or workers who handled the same task shortly before you. Record their names, job roles and anything they remember so you can refer back to consistent statements if needed.

The scene and equipment condition

Document the physical setting while it still reflects the moment of the injury. Describe the lighting, floor surface, noise level and any obstacles present. If equipment failed, record its condition, any visible damage and how it behaved just before the incident. Take photographs or short videos that show the exact position of tools, materials or hazards. These images often prove vital when conditions change quickly in busy workplaces.

Reporting and support records

Keep copies of everything you submit when you report the accident. This includes written reports, emails to your manager and entries in the accident book. Save any responses you receive, because they show how your employer acknowledged the event and what steps they took. If the company offers support - such as modified duties or time away from particular tasks - record the dates and details so you can track how the workplace handled your recovery.

Medical and absence documentation

Request written notes from every medical professional you speak to, from the first-aider who treated you onsite to the GP or specialist who assessed you later. These notes should explain the injury, recommended treatment and how it affects your ability to work. Keep your fit notes, appointment confirmations and details of any medication or therapy. If you need time off, maintain a log of your absences and symptoms so you can show how the injury influenced your daily routine and long-term health.