A Workplace Injury Occurs: What Tasmanian Employers Must Do Next
Yesterday, someone was injured at work.
Today, the real responsibility begins.
At 7:30am, the roster has a gap — the injured worker has called in unable to work.
By 9:00am, supervisors are rearranging duties.
By 10:00am, the question arises:
“What do we actually need to do now?”
If you operate a business in Tasmania, there are clear steps that follow a workplace injury — and getting them right matters.
Workers’ compensation insurance Tasmania isn’t just about having a policy in place. It’s about understanding your obligations once a claim is lodged.
Here’s what typically happens next.
1️⃣ Ensure Immediate Care
Your first priority is the well-being of the injured worker. Medical treatment should be arranged as required. A medical certificate will usually outline capacity and any work restrictions.
2️⃣ Notify Your Insurer Promptly
In Tasmania, employers must notify their workers’ compensation insurer as soon as possible after becoming aware of an injury that may give rise to a claim.
Delays can:
-
- Complicate claim assessment
- Affect wage reimbursement
- Increase administrative burden
If you’re unsure of your reporting obligations, official guidance from WorkSafe Tasmania is available here
3️⃣ Maintain Wage Payments (If Applicable)
Depending on the circumstances and medical certification, employers may be required to continue paying weekly benefits while the claim is being assessed.
Understanding how this interacts with your policy is critical.
4️⃣ Develop a Return-to-Work Plan
Tasmanian employers have an obligation to support safe and suitable return-to-work arrangements where possible.
That may involve:
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- Modified duties
- Reduced hours
- Alternative tasks
Early engagement often leads to smoother outcomes for both employer and employee.
5️⃣ Keep Communication Clear
Silence creates anxiety.
Clarity builds cooperation.
Staying in contact with the injured worker, your insurer, and relevant supervisors reduces confusion and keeps expectations aligned.
The Bigger Picture
While this article focuses on practical next steps, the strategic side of workforce risk management is equally important.
If you’d like to explore how workplace injuries affect premium stability, business continuity, and broader risk exposure, our advisory team at RSM Tasmania discusses that here:
👉 https://rsmtasmania.com.au/rsm_insights/
Because the morning after a workplace injury shouldn’t feel uncertain.
Remember, this article is general in nature and doesn’t take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. For advice tailored to your circumstances, have a chat with us at RSM Tasmania Insurance Brokers Hobart.
Talk to Roger Hosie and stay ahead with our Workers Comp insights.
Call Now! (03) 6244 7854, or email roger@wcomptas.com.au.