A worker is injured at the workplace or on the way to work: what must be done, and within what deadlines? A work accident follows a precise procedure built around the employer and the statutory insurer.
What is a work accident?
Under the Law of 10 April 1971, it is a sudden event that occurs during and because of the performance of the employment contract and causes an injury. The commuting accident is also covered.
Compulsory insurance from day one
Every private-sector employer must take out statutory work-accident insurance with an approved insurer.
Declare within 8 days
The employer must declare the accident to their insurer within eight days. It is not for the employer to judge: they declare, the insurer decides. A medical certificate is attached as soon as there is incapacity.
Minor accidents
A benign accident (first aid sufficient, no medical intervention, no incapacity) need not be declared: recording it in the first-aid register is enough. If the condition worsens, declare within 8 days.
Uninsured employer: Fedris
Without insurance, the employer declares to Fedris, which compensates the victim then recovers from the employer.
The victim's rights
- declare the accident themselves;
- freely choose doctor, pharmacist and hospital;
- reimbursement of medical costs.
For temporary total incapacity: 90 % of the basic remuneration.
In short
Notify your employer, see a doctor, keep the certificate. In case of dispute, turn to Fedris.