The Labor Inspectorate is reminding employers, contractors and workplace managers that serious occupational accidents must be reported to the authorities under Sint Maarten’s Safety Ordinance.
Reportable incidents include accidents resulting in death, hospitalization, possible permanent disability, personal injury or absence from work.
Employers are also being reminded to preserve the scene of a serious workplace accident as much as safely possible so inspectors can determine what happened and whether proper safety measures were in place.
The Inspectorate stresses that reporting an accident to an insurer or another institution does not replace the legal obligation to notify the Labor Inspectorate.
Employers are expected to provide emergency assistance, notify authorities immediately, preserve evidence and cooperate fully with investigations.
Inspector General Joe Alcala says timely reporting is essential for identifying hazards, determining causes and preventing similar incidents in the future.
Workers are also encouraged to report serious safety concerns if they believe unsafe conditions or workplace accidents are not being properly addressed.