Accidents & Incidents
At William & Mary, we investigate work-related accidents and incidents involving personal injury/illness and significant property or environmental damage. The goal of an investigation is an objective and thorough analysis of the incident that accurately describes the event and its causes, and suggests ways to prevent the future occurrence of similar accidents. We then use the investigation information in a constructive way to improve our environment, health, and safety processes and to share lessons learned with others who may be faced with similar work situations.
The success of the investigation process is largely dependent upon how timely the accident or incident is reported. The more time that elapses between the date of the incident and when it's reported, the harder it is to collect accurate information, identify root causes, and determine effective solutions. All William & Mary employees are expected to report an accident/incident within 24 hours of its occurrence. See the following specific incident instructions:
Work-related personal-injury accidents or illness
Injuries/illnesses that involve medical treatment beyond first aid will be investigated. Injuries/illnesses that involve first aid only may be investigated if the supervisor or the EH&S staff believe it would provide beneficial lessons learned.
To report a workplace accident or injury, the employee and supervisor shall complete all required documents found on the University Human Resources Workers' Compensation webpage and submit to Human Resources as directed on the forms.
Spills
Spills of oil, chemicals, or other hazardous materials of any amount into a sink, floor drain, exterior storm sewer or site drainage ditches will be investigated. Spills involving petroleum products greater than 25 gallons will also be investigated. To report a spill, contact the EH&S Department at 757-221-1643.
Equipment Damage Incidents
Incidents involving equipment damage should be reported to the William & Mary Police Department by calling 757-221-4596 to have an incident report completed.
Vehicle Accidents
All vehicle accidents involving state-owned or leased motor vehicles will be investigated. Risk Management's Auto Accident information page can be found here: Risk Management.
Student Incidents/Accidents
All student employees shall complete all documents as directed on the University Human Resources Workers' Compensation webpage and submit to Human Resources as directed on the forms. Accidents involving students that are not employees should be documented and reported to the department and the Environmental Health & Safety Office by completing the Student Accident Form.
Animal Bites During Research
According to IACUC procedure, animal bites are to be reported immediately to the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee, the Environmental Health & Safety Office and the appropriate PI and or supervisor. Read Injuries and Illnesses from Animal Bites, Scratches and Other Exposures for guidelines on responding to an incident. Animal bites that occur during research should be reported by completing the Animal Bite Form.
Visitors and Guests
All visitor and guest accidents should be reported to the William & Mary Police Department by calling 757-221-4596 to have an incident report completed.
