It's 10:42 a.m. A worker slips in the warehouse. Everyone freezes — and looks at you.
In 2022 alone, Canada recorded approximately 348,747 accepted lost-time workplace injury claims — and 1,056 accepted workplace fatalities were recorded in 2023. Injuries happen across every industry. What separates a compliant, confident employer from a panicking one? A clear plan.
💡 Want your whole team ready before the next incident? Our Emergency First Aid & CPR online course gives employees fast, practical certification — fully online, anytime, from any device.
⚡ 30-Second Summary
Care → Report → Document
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✅ Give first aid / call 911
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✅ Transport the worker to medical care (employer's cost)
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✅ Document everything immediately
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✅ Report to WSIB/WCB within 3 business days
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✅ Plan a safe return to modified work
Step 1: Provide Immediate First Aid
Your first job is the worker's safety — not the paperwork.
Assess the scene, call 911 if needed, and apply first aid. If the worker is unresponsive and not breathing, begin CPR immediately. Every second counts in a cardiac or breathing emergency.
🎬 Watch: What to Do If Someone Stops Breathing?
Step 2: Arrange Transportation
If your employee needs health care treatment, you must either transport them to a health professional or pay the cost of their transportation on the day of the injury. This is a legal obligation under WSIB — not optional.
You must also pay your employee a full day's wage on the day of the incident.
Step 3: Document the Incident
Memory fades, but records are permanent. Before the end of the day, document:
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The exact time and location.
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Witness statements and contact info.
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The nature of the injury and the first aid provided.
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Photos of the scene or equipment involved.
Step 4: Report to WSIB/WCB Within 3 Business Days
In Ontario, you must submit Form 7 to the WSIB within three business days of learning about the injury.
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The Cost of Delay: Late filing starts at a $250 penalty and can escalate to $1,000+.
- National Note: While this guide highlights WSIB (Ontario), reporting windows and form names vary by province (e.g., WorkSafeBC or WCB Alberta). Always verify your local jurisdiction's portal.
Step 5: Facilitate a Safe Return to Work
Recovery doesn't end at the hospital. 87.9% of people with workplace injuries returned to work with no wage loss within 12 months when supported with modified duties and early intervention. Keep the lines of communication open with both the worker and the WSIB.
Is Your Team Compliant? ✅
Knowing the steps is one thing. Being ready to act is another.
Our Emergency First Aid & CPR online course trains your team to respond confidently in real emergencies — covering CPR, first aid, AED use, and more. It's 100% online, self-paced, and certificates can be earned the same day.
👉 Enroll Your Team Today → Fast. Accessible. Recognized across Canadian workplaces.
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