Workplace Accident Reporting and RIDDOR Regulations

Accident Recording and Data Protection

Record and Securely Hold All Work-Related Accidents

When any work-related accident occurs, regardless of its severity, it is essential to maintain accurate records in compliance with Data Protection Regulations. This legal requirement ensures the security and confidentiality of accident information. Accident books are designed to assist in recording the appropriate details, often accompanied by instructions to ensure accurate reporting.

RIDDOR: Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations

Reporting Obligations and Injuries Covered

Under RIDDOR, certain accidents must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This includes all work-related deaths, injuries to workers and non-workers, and acts of physical violence towards workers. The HSE provides a comprehensive list of reportable injuries, including:

• Fractures (excluding fingers, thumbs, and toes)
• Amputations of limbs and digits
• Permanent loss or reduction of sight
• Crush injuries causing internal organ damage
• Serious burns (covering more than 10% of the body or affecting vital organs)
• Scalping requiring hospital treatment
• Unconsciousness from head injuries or other work-related causes leading to hypothermia, heat-induced illness, or hospital admission exceeding 24 hours

Seven-Day Reporting Requirement

Extended Absence Due to Accidents

When an employee or self-employed individual is unable to work or perform their usual duties for more than seven consecutive days following an accident, it must also be reported under RIDDOR.

Public Involvement and Hospital Treatment

Reporting Injuries to the Public

If a member of the public sustains an injury in a work-related accident requiring hospital treatment, it must be reported. Details of the specific treatment received are not necessary for reporting purposes. Incidents where individuals are taken to the hospital as a precaution without any injury do not require reporting.

Hospital Accidents and Dangerous Occurrences

Reporting Requirements for Hospital Accidents and Dangerous Occurrences

Accidents occurring within hospitals need to be reported only if they fall under the specified injuries listed in RIDDOR. Dangerous occurrences encompass near-miss events that have the potential to cause harm. While not all dangerous occurrences require reporting, most workplaces should be aware of the 27 categories of such incidents. Examples include the collapse of lifts or lifting equipment, contact between plant or equipment and overhead power lines, or explosions and fires leading to work cessation exceeding 24 hours.

Additional Categories

Specific Categories for Certain Workplaces

Mines, quarries, offshore workplaces, certain transport systems, and reportable gas incidents related to the distribution, import, filling, or supplying of flammable gas have additional reporting categories specific to their respective industries.