tööõnnetuse

A tööõnnetus, or industrial accident, refers to an accident that occurs during or in connection with work, or a journey to or from work, which results in injury to the employee, damage to property, or loss of production. In Estonia, the legal framework for workplace safety and accident reporting is primarily governed by the Töötervishoiu ja tööohutuse seadus (Occupational Health and Safety Act).

Key aspects of a tööõnnetus include the suddenness of the event, the connection to work activities, and the resulting harm. This harm can range from minor injuries that require first aid to severe injuries leading to temporary or permanent disability, or even fatalities. The definition also extends to accidents occurring during commuting, provided they are directly related to the work journey.

Employers have a legal obligation to ensure a safe working environment and to take all necessary measures to prevent accidents. If a tööõnnetus does occur, the employer must immediately take steps to assist the injured party and to investigate the circumstances of the accident. Reporting the accident to the relevant authorities, such as the Estonian Labour Inspectorate, is also a mandatory procedure. This reporting allows for proper documentation, investigation, and the implementation of preventative measures to avoid similar incidents in the future. The investigation aims to determine the cause of the accident, identify any violations of safety regulations, and to establish liability if applicable. Compensation for injuries sustained in a tööõnnetus is typically handled through the Estonian social security system.