Employee on Extended Sick Leave Due to Accident: How Should HR Handle This Situation?

Hi, I am working as an HR Executive in a multinational company. I need your suggestion on this topic. One employee got into an accident and has taken a leave for 36 days. He has submitted some medical reports regarding his hand fracture. What can I do? Please guide me. My email ID is rnjha_r@rediffmail.com.

Hi R.N. Jha! You have not mentioned where the employee met with an accident, i.e., on the premises of the factory or outside. It is important to note whether it falls into the category of "accident in the course of employment." If it is in the course of employment, responsibility lies with the employer for treatment and leave for the disablement period. It should have proper supporting documents, such as medical certificates/history, medicine bills, test reports, etc. The employer always has the option of subjecting the employee to strict proof thereof. But why this question now? Was there no report from the department concerned? Whether your company did not make available medical aids to him and whether the doctor attending on him did not mention the expected period for recuperation from the disablement period. If the answer is no, then please develop such a methodology so that you are not in the same dilemma next time. I suggest reading "the Workmen's Compensation Act" in this regard.

I.N. Jha

What if the accident happens when the worker is enjoying his tea break outside his workplace due to his own negligence?

Please let me know if you would like further assistance.

Dear Rajendra,

If E.S.I. is applicable, then you suggest filing a claim under the E.S.I. Scheme. If E.S.I. is not applicable, you should utilize the W.C. Policy as an alternative. The third option is the Group Personal Accident policy, and the best approach would be to submit all documents to the insurance officer under the GPA Policy.

Here are three options you can choose from. For insurance purposes, you must provide notification of the accident within 24 hours.

Regards,
Anil