As a construction worker, tools and machinery are regularly part of your job. However, it is important to keep safety in the forefront of your mind when you use construction equipment because it has the potential to cause serious injuries. In 2017, over 28,000 serious injuries in the U.S. construction field were caused by contact with an object or piece of equipment. Most of those injuries happened when a worker was struck by the object or piece of equipment.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, other common causes of injuries in the construction field include:

• Falls, slips and trips
• Overexertion and bodily reaction
• Transportation incidents

While it is important to use all safety measures available to you, sometimes accidents still happen. If you were injured while at work, you can file a workers compensation claim, which may help you receive compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. Depending on your injury, you may also be eligible for temporary or permanent disability benefits or other benefits.

What to do following a workplace injury

The first action you should take following an injury at work is to notify your employer. If you do not notify your employer as soon as possible, you risk your workers’ compensation claim being disputed.

Your employer should then connect you with the appropriate medical attention. This may mean ensuring you get needed emergency care or may mean showing you a directory for providers of non-emergency care. However, it is important to use your company’s designated medical professional for initial treatment, if possible.

Your employer may request your help in filling out a First Report of Injury form, which is sometimes called an accident report. However, you should also file a 30C Form, Notice of Claim for Compensation, as soon as possible because the accident report is not an official claim for workers’ compensation benefits.

Your job in the construction field presents certain safety hazards that can easily lead to workplace injuries. If you have been injured at work, it is important to take the right steps after your injury to help make sure you receive everything you are entitled to.