What to do Immediately After Suffering a Federal Work Injury?

If you are a federal employee who has suffered an injury while on the job, it’s crucial to take specific steps immediately to ensure you receive the benefits and medical attention you need. Here’s what you should do:

1. Report the Injury:
Immediately notify your supervisor. This is a critical first step under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). If your injury requires emergency medical treatment, get help first and inform your supervisor as soon as possible thereafter. Reporting must be done within 30 days of the injury, but doing so immediately is best.

2. Seek Medical Attention:
Get medical treatment. If your injury is traumatic, obtain Form CA-16 from your supervisor or Workers’ Compensation Program Specialist, which authorizes examination and/or treatment. This form guarantees that the physician can be paid for weight loss services provided. For occupational diseases, which develop over time, the same urgency applies, although you’ll use Form CA-2.

3. Document the Incident:
Complete the necessary forms:
For traumatic injuries, use Form CA-1, “Federal Employee’s Notice of Traumatic Injury and Claim for Continuation of Pay/Compensation.” This should be submitted online in the Safety Management Information System (SMIS) if possible, or in paper form if you lack computer access. This form also serves as your claim for continuation of pay (COP) if you’re disabled due to the injury.
For occupational diseases, use Form CA-2, “Federal Employee’s Notice of Occupational Disease and Claim for Compensation.” This should also be filed online or in paper form, and it’s crucial to include any medical evidence supporting your claim.

4. Keep Records:
Keep copies of all documents. This includes your forms, any medical reports, and communications with your supervisor or compensation specialists. Documentation is key to ensuring your claim is processed accurately and swiftly.

5. Inform Your Supervisor About Your Condition:
Regularly update your supervisor. If you’re unable to work, discuss light-duty options or keep your supervisor informed about your recovery progress. This communication helps in managing your return to work or understanding any light-duty work possibilities.

6. Follow Up:
Ensure your claim is processed. If you encounter issues or delays, reach out to your agency’s Workers’ Compensation Program Specialist or consider consulting with a legal expert in federal workers’ compensation to guide you through the process.

Remember, acting quickly and thoroughly in these steps not only helps in your immediate recovery but also in securing the compensation and support you are entitled to under the FECA. Keep all interactions professional and documented for your protection and to facilitate a smooth process.