Accidents, occupational diseases and workplace bullying

Accident at work: what it is

It is a traumatic event caused by a violent cause (a fall, contact with machinery or electric current, heatstroke, absorption of toxic substances and similar) in the course of work. There must be a link between the accident and the work activity, even if it happens outside the workplace or working hours.

Commuting accident: what it is

It is an accident that happens on the way from home to work and back, or from the workplace to where you eat when there is no canteen. INAIL recognises it if the journey is work-related, follows a normal route and takes place at times compatible with work. If you use your own vehicle instead of public transport, walking or cycling, you must show that public transport is not available or not compatible with your hours.

What to do if you have an accident

• tell your employer immediately, even if the injury seems minor;
• get a medical certificate, which the doctor sends to INAIL;
• the employer must send the accident report to INAIL within 2 days of receiving the certificate (within 24 hours for a fatal or life-threatening accident);
• if the employer does not do so, the worker can report it to INAIL or contact the nearest CCL office.

Accidents at home

People who do unpaid domestic work for their family are covered by INAIL in case of accident. Registration is compulsory for those aged 18 to 65 who do not receive a pension and who regularly, exclusively and without an employment relationship take care of the home and family. Those who must be insured include:

• students who look after the home where they live;
• adults who are dedicated exclusively to caring for the family;
• pensioners under 65;
• workers on cassa integrazione (wage guarantee scheme) or unemployed;
• foreign nationals legally residing who do no other work;
• seasonal, temporary and fixed-term workers (only for the periods when they are not working).

The premium is paid by the State for people with a gross personal income up to 4,648.11 euros a year or in a household with a total gross income up to 9,296.22 euros a year.

Occupational diseases and workplace bullying (mobbing)

Illnesses caused by work entitle you to the INAIL benefits provided by law. People who suffer harassing and persecutory behaviour at work (mobbing) can get help to assess the available protection, including legal action, and to document the harm suffered.

For more information and assistance, contact your nearest CCL office.