If you are injured at work or you think your work is affecting your health:

Tell your employer at once.

Your employer should arrange first aid and any other medical treatment that you need.

Your employer should make sure that the hazard that affected you is controlled so nobody else is injured.

Make sure your accident is recorded in your workplace's accident register. The law says all employers must keep a record of any workplace accidents that happen.

If your injury is serious, your employer must report it to OSH.

It is very important that you tell your employer about any injury or illness as soon as possible after it happens. This is to ensure your injury or illness is treated as soon as possible and to make sure that the hazard which hurt you can be fixed so it doesn't hurt anyone else.

Accident Compensation

If you are unable to work because of a serious work injury, you may need some time off work. You may also be entitled to be paid accident compensation while you are away from work.

Ask your doctor if you need to fill out an ACC form (remember what might seem a minor injury now may have long term implications for your future health and career).

If your claim is accepted, you will be paid 80% of your earnings until you are able to return. Your employer will pay the first week and ACC will pay the weeks that follow.

You may also be entitled to a partial refund on doctors visits and any physiotherapy your have.

Returning to work

The most important thing you can do is concentrate on getting better and make a return to work. Sometimes a gradual return to work is best.