An on-the-job fatality is a profound tragedy that takes an enormous emotional and financial toll on an organization. Beyond the immediate shock, employers must navigate a complex landscape of legal obligations and internal crisis management. Our comprehensive Employer's Guide to Fatal Incidents serves as a step-by-step roadmap, providing compassionate support and practical advice to help you manage the aftermath of a catastrophic event with clarity and care.
The first priority following an incident is securing the scene and fulfilling mandatory reporting requirements. Under 29 CFR 1904.39, employers must report any work-related fatality to OSHA within eight hours. Our guide walks you through these critical first steps, ensuring you meet federal deadlines while coordinating with emergency responders and establishing a support team to manage the immediate impact on your Colorado job site.
Preparing for the inevitable regulatory response is a key component of our resources. We provide detailed guidance on how to prepare for an OSHA investigation, including preserving evidence, identifying witnesses, and understanding your rights during the inspection process. This section also helps you determine when to seek legal counsel to protect your business interests while remaining transparent and compliant with federal workplace safety laws.
Managing the human element is perhaps the most challenging aspect of a fatal accident. Our guide offers specific tips for managing employee grief and supporting the victim's family, recognizing that the mental health of your remaining workforce is paramount. We also provide protocols for handling media involvement, helping you communicate with the public and the press in a way that respects the privacy of the deceased and maintains the integrity of your company.
MOVING FORWARD: HELPING WORKERS COPE AFTER THEY WITNESS A SERIOUS INCIDENT
Let Pinnacol Assurance stand by your side, providing the expertise and support needed to lead your team through a tragic time and toward a path of healing. By utilizing these structured resources, you can navigate the most difficult days of your professional career with a clear plan of action. While we hope you never have to use this guide, being prepared ensures that you can respond to a loss with the dignity, speed, and compliance required.
To request a Safety Service visit or if you simply have a safety-related question, please complete our Contact Us form and one of our Safety Consultants will respond within two business days.
If a workplace injury takes place, acting quickly is crucial. Pinnacol is committed to making the reporting process seamless so your employees get the care they need to recover.
To file a claim or for questions, call us at 303.361.400 or visit our report an injury webpage.
Check out our additional online trainings covering struck-by hazard awareness and and other topics through Pinnacol's Safety Education Online. To learn more or to request enrollment, check out our Safety Education Online page.