A work accident can happen to anyone — especially those starting a new job in an unfamiliar environment. As a worker in Poland, you have specific rights and obligations after an accident. It's important to know the procedure before anything happens.
What is a Work Accident?
Under Polish law (the Act on accident insurance), a work accident is a sudden event caused by an external factor that results in injury or death and is connected to work. This covers accidents at the workplace and on the way to or from work.
Step 1: Immediately After the Accident
- Don't go back to work immediately — even if the pain seems minor. Many injuries (spine, joints) appear later.
- Notify your supervisor or employer — this is mandatory and must be done immediately. Failure to report can complicate accessing benefits.
- Get medical help — call an ambulance or go to the emergency room (SOR). Ask for a medical certificate describing the injuries.
- Remember witnesses — the names of colleagues who saw the accident. Their testimony may be crucial.
Step 2: Reporting the Accident to Your Employer
Your employer is obligated to:
- Secure the accident site
- Appoint an accident investigation team (minimum 2 people)
- Prepare an accident report within 14 days of the notification
You have the right to:
- Review the accident report and submit objections
- Refuse to sign the report if you disagree with its content
- Provide written explanations to the report
Step 3: ZUS Benefits After a Work Accident
After a work accident you may be entitled to:
- Sick pay from accident insurance — 100% of your pay base (not 80% as with illness), from the first day
- Rehabilitation allowance — if after 182 days of sick pay you're still unable to work
- One-time compensation — for permanent health impairment (paid by ZUS after treatment is completed)
- Disability pension — for long-term consequences of the accident
The sick pay application is submitted to ZUS by your employer. The accident report and medical documentation are required.
Step 4: If Your Employer Refuses to Report the Accident
Concealing a work accident is illegal in Poland. You can:
- Report it directly to ZUS (the branch for your workplace location)
- File a complaint with the State Labour Inspectorate (PIP) — free, anonymous
- Contact a trade union or an organisation supporting migrant workers
Important: Temporary Agency Workers
As a temporary worker (employed through an agency), your legal employer is the agency — but the user employer (the company where you actually work) is responsible for safe working conditions. Report the accident to both parties.
Nexflow Supports You
If you work through Nexflow and an accident happens — contact your Nexflow coordinator immediately. We will help with the report, communication with the user employer, and the ZUS benefits process. You don't have to navigate this alone.