Workplace Injury and Safety Information

Kalamazoo College is committed to the health and safety of all community members. Creating and maintaining a safe, healthy work environment is a shared responsibility. Reporting an unsafe work condition is an act of care—and will be treated with the attention it deserves.

This page is designed to help employees understand what to do in the event of a workplace injury, how to report unsafe conditions, and where to find the necessary support.

In the event of an emergency, please call 911 immediately.

🚨 1. What To Do If You’re Injured at Work
If you are injured while working—whether on campus or while performing job duties remotely—please follow these steps:
  1. If there is an emergency, call 911 and let Campus Safety know that their arrival is pending.
  2. Seek medical attention immediately, if needed at Bronson ProHealth on John Street (address is below).
  3. Report Incident to Campus Safety, even if no medical treatment is necessary.
  4. Report the injury to your supervisor as soon as possible.
  5. Complete an Employee Accident Report Form within 24-hours of the injury, if possible and even if no medical treatment is necessary. .
  6. Your supervisor will initiate the internal reporting process by completing the Supervisor Accident Report Form, including submitting the forms to HR.
  7. If the area requires attention to prevent a future incident (e.g., salting a sidewalk to avoid another slip and fall), please consider submitting a Work Order Request.
  8. If applicable, HR will provide information regarding workers’ compensation benefits, file the claim, and update you on next steps.

📄 View Full Steps for Handling a Work-related Injury or Illness

📞 Campus Safety: 269.337.7321.
🏥 Nearest medical facility: John Street Bronson ProHealth | 820 John St., Suite 102 | Kalamazoo, MI 49001 | 📞 269.341.8938 F: 269.341.7556

💼 2. Workers’ Compensation Overview

Workers’ Compensation provides medical coverage and wage replacement benefits for eligible work-related injuries or illnesses.

We’ll help you:

  • Submit a claim
  • Understand your rights and responsibilities
  • Navigate medical evaluations and treatments

For more information, contact Miasha Wilson at Miasha.Wilson@kzoo.edu.

3. Employees’ Rights & Responsibilities

Employees have the right to:

  • A safe and healthy workplace
  • File a report without fear of retaliation
  • Access workers’ compensation benefits if injured on the job

Employees are responsible for:

  • Reporting injuries or unsafe conditions promptly
  • Following safety protocols and procedures
  • Cooperating with investigations

📄 View Full Rights & Responsibilities Guide

4. Reporting Unsafe Working Conditions

Notice something unsafe? Your voice matters. Use the anonymous form below to report any hazards, broken equipment, or unsafe behaviors in the workplace.

5. Reporting Accessibility Barrier

Please use the Accessibility Barrier Report Form to report any accessibility barriers on campus. Submissions are received by Student Disability Services, Human Resources, and the Office of Gender Equity and Access, who will ensure that each report is directed to the appropriate office or department for response.

Thank you for your partnership in fostering a safe and accessible campus for our entire community.

6. Prevention Tips & Best Practices

Prevention is key to maintaining a safe workplace. Remember the following quick-tips and explore our additional resources for more helpful information.

  • Keep walkways and exits clear of obstacles
  • Lift with your legs, not your back
  • Report spills or hazards immediately
  • Use proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when required
  • Follow posted safety procedures in your department

📄 Review the General Office Safety Checklist

📄 Review the Ergonomics at Your Desk: Quick Reference Guide

📄 Review the Online Safety Reference Guide

Let’s work together to build healthy habits and promote a culture of care and responsibility.

👮 7. Campus Safety Partnership

We work closely with Campus Safety to ensure a secure and responsive environment for all employees. For resources like:

  • Emergency response protocols
  • Campus escort services
  • Annual safety reports

Please visit Campus Safety’s Emergency Procedures website for more information.

8. Need Help?
For assistance with workplace injury procedures, contact:
  1. Please call 911 if there is an emergency.
  2. Campus Safety | campussafety@kzoo.edu | 📞 269.337.7321 | 24/7 Response
  3. HR Office| hr@kzoo.edu | 📞 269.337.7225 | Office: 108 Mandelle Hall, HR Wing

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I’m working remotely and get injured?

A: Please report it as you would an on-site injury. HR will review the circumstances and advise on next steps.

Q: Can I choose my own doctor for treatment?

A: Workers’ Comp has guidelines for authorized providers. HR will help you understand your options.

Q: What if I need workplace accommodations?

A: Let us know. We’ll work with you to explore reasonable accommodations under applicable laws.

Q: Who determines when I can return to work?

A: Your medical provider, in coordination with HR, will determine when you’re cleared to return and what duties are appropriate.