Personal injuryThis website explains Dutch law. It does not provide legal advice about other countries.

Workplace accident in the Netherlands

After an accident at work, medical care and evidence come first. An accident report and a compensation claim are separate steps; reporting does not itself establish liability.

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1. Check the facts

Seek appropriate care and tell the employer what happened. Record the time, place, activity, witnesses and equipment involved. Keep photos and medical records privately; do not upload medical details into a general chat.

2. Take action

Employers must report qualifying serious accidents to the Nederlandse Arbeidsinspectie, including death, hospital admission or permanent injury. A worker can also make a report. Check the official reporting guidance if seriousness becomes clear later.

3. If the problem continues

Keep receipts and a record of lost income and help you need. Ask a personal injury adviser to assess responsibility and next steps before signing a final settlement. If an agency and another company are involved, identify both; responsibility is not resolved by the workplace name alone.

Documents to prepare

  • Accident details and witnesses
  • Employer and agency details
  • Medical records and costs

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Sources and further help

For personal help, check your legal expenses insurance, trade union or Het Juridisch Loket. Ask about language support and costs before instructing a lawyer. Do not share names or private documents in the chat.

Nederlandse ArbeidsinspectieArboportaalHet Juridisch Loket ↗

Sources may be in Dutch. General information about Dutch law, not individual legal advice. Updated 11 September 2026.