A workplace accident is not just an unfortunate incident but an event that can have serious consequences for both the employee and the employer. In Romania, any event leading to a worker’s injury must be carefully analyzed to determine whether it qualifies as a work accident, according to Law No. 319/2006 on occupational health and safety.
What Is a Work Accident?
According to Article 5, letter g of Law No. 319/2006, a work accident is defined as “a violent injury to the body, as well as acute occupational poisoning, occurring during the work process or in the performance of job duties, which results in at least three days of temporary incapacity for work, disability, or death.”
When an event occurs that may qualify as a work accident, the employer has a legal obligation to act immediately to investigate the incident, determine its nature and cause, and implement preventive measures.
Consequences for Employers in Case of a Work Accident
If a work accident is caused by the employer’s negligence, severe penalties may apply. The legal consequences include:
• Fines of up to 10,000 RON for failing to comply with occupational health and safety obligations.
• Suspension of business activities if preventive measures are missing or insufficient.
• Compensation for the employee or their family, including medical costs and payments for work incapacity.
• Criminal liability for the employer or occupational health and safety managers in severe cases resulting in disability or death.