Are you dealing with a work accident? Then it is important to know when your employer is obliged to report this. In the Netherlands, serious work accidents must be reported to the Social Affairs and Employment Inspectorate (Labour Inspectorate). This applies not only to permanent employees, but also to temporary workers. In this blog, we explain what a serious work accident is and what your rights are as a victim.

When should a work accident be reported?

A work accident must be reported when it is considered serious. This is the case if:

• The employee is admitted to the hospital.
• There is permanent injury, such as:
  • Blindness
  • Amputation of limbs
  • Chronic physical or mental complaints (e.g. PTSD)
• The accident leads to death.

If the severity of the injury becomes clear later, the employer still has a reporting obligation. For example, if an employee ends up in the hospital after the accident or turns out to have permanent injury.

What happens after a report?

Upon a report of a serious work accident, the Labour Inspectorate conducts an investigation. This process proceeds as follows:

1. Investigation at the scene of the accident: The employer must leave the location intact to facilitate the investigation.
2. Interviews with those involved: Employees, witnesses and other persons involved are heard. In the event of fatal accidents, contact is made with the next of kin.
3. Reporting:
   • If legal safety rules have been violated, a penalty report is drawn up. The employer may receive a fine of up to €50,000.
   • If no rules have been violated, an accident report is drawn up.

The report of the Labour Inspectorate can then be used to demonstrate the employer’s liability in a personal injury claim.

Your rights after a work accident

As a victim of a work accident, you have rights, including:

• Compensation: For medical costs, loss of income and other damage.
• Employer liability: Under article 7:658 BW, the employer is responsible for providing a safe working environment and taking adequate safety measures.
• Support in reintegration: If you are temporarily unable to work, the employer has the duty to support you in reintegration or finding suitable work.

Why engage legal help?

Claiming personal injury after a work accident can be complicated. Many victims find it important to maintain a good relationship with their employer. At Arslan Lawyers, we understand this and ensure a careful approach. Moreover, our services are completely free of charge, as we recover our costs from the liable party.

What we offer:

• Experienced personal injury lawyers: We have extensive expertise in employment law and personal injury.
• Support in obtaining reports: We help you view and use Labour Inspectorate reports for your claim.
• Speed and care: We ensure you receive compensation as quickly as possible, including any advances.

Contact us for legal help

Are you a victim of a work accident? Or do you want to know more about your rights? Contact Arslan Lawyers. Fill in our contact form or call us. We are ready to help you and ensure that you get what you are entitled to.