Ukraine: Revised procedure for occupational incident and illness investigation

As of 1 July 2019, employers are required to follow a revised procedure for the investigation of occupational accidents and illnesses (including acute poisonings).

The procedure sets out responsibilities and duties of the employer, head of department (foreman) and employees in case of an occupational incident or an illness.  It also prescribes which forms must be completed (e.g. the N-1 form).

Certain occupational incidents and illnesses are subject to a “special investigation”. For example, special investigation must be performed for:

  • lethal accidents;
  • group accidents;
  • deaths of employees while performing their duties;
  • lethal poisonings;
  • accidents resulting in a potential disability of an employee; etc. 

In case of an occupational incident or an illness (poisoning) not subject to a special investigation, the employer must create a commission. The commission must be created within one working day from the moment the information about the incident, illness or an accident has been received by the employer. The commission must include an OHS specialist, trade union representative, etc. 

In case of an occupational incident or illness subject to a special investigation a special investigation commission must be created by the labour protection authority or its territorial body.

Law: Decree No. 337 of 17 April 2019 on Approval of the Procedure for the Investigation and Record Keeping of Occupational Incidents, Accidents and Illnesses