Incident Response

What is the notification deadline for a workplace accident?

Employers must notify the Labor Inspection Service immediately, but no later than 24 hours after the incident occurs.

Can I handle the investigation internally?

You must perform an internal investigation, but serious accidents also involve a mandatory state investigation by the Labor Inspection and potentially the police.

Should I speak to the media?

It is advised to consult with a legal/PR expert first. Statements made under stress can be legally damaging. Designate one spokesperson.

What if the employee was at fault?

Even if the employee violated safety rules, the employer must prove they provided proper training and equipment. Immediate documentation of these facts is crucial.

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Incident Response regarding accidents and emergencies is a crisis management process where every minute and every action holds decisive legal significance. When a workplace accident, fire, chemical spill, or other emergency occurs, the company is obligated to act immediately and strictly within the legal framework. Incorrect initial steps—such as leaving the accident scene unsecured, delayed notification, or careless destruction of evidence—can lead to severe criminal liability for the employer and colossal financial losses. "Incident Response" is a service providing professional legal and technical support from the very first minutes of a crisis.

Legal.ge offers access to crisis management specialists and lawyers who will assist you in managing emergency situations. This service includes:

  • 24/7 Emergency Consultation: Immediate legal advice right after the incident occurs—who to contact, what documentation to fill out, and how to secure the scene.
  • Communication with State Agencies: Informing the Labor Inspection, Police, and Emergency Management Service within the deadlines and formats established by law.
  • Evidence Preservation: Photographing/video recording the scene, recording initial witness statements, and documenting facts for future investigation.
  • Legal Control of PR/Media Relations: Approving public statements to avoid premature admission of guilt or reputational damage.
  • Communication with Victims: Initial negotiations with injured employees or their families regarding compensation and medical assistance.

The incident response service is critical in situations such as: a fall from height at a construction site, a hazardous substance leak in a factory, an office fire, or a traffic accident while performing duties. For example, if a chemical spill occurs in a warehouse, incorrect response can lead not only to employee poisoning but also environmental contamination, imposing double liability on the company. Lawyer involvement ensures the process follows protocol.

In Georgia, incident response is regulated by the "Organic Law of Georgia on Labor Safety" and the "Law on Civil Safety." Legislation strictly defines notification deadlines: the employer is obliged to inform the Labor Inspection and Police about an accident immediately (no later than 24 hours). Concealing information or delay leads to administrative and criminal liability. The principle of "inviolability of the accident scene" until the investigation concludes is also crucial.

The process begins with an emergency call. The specialist manages the situation remotely or by arriving on-site. The main goal is to localize damage and minimize legal risks. Specialists ensure that the company fulfills all legal requirements while avoiding mistakes that could later be used against them.

Legal.ge is your reliable partner in crisis situations. Our experts will help you maintain calm and control even in the most difficult moments, protecting your employees and business interests.

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