Under French labor law, employers are legally obligated to report any workplace accident involving an employee as soon as they become aware of it. Failure to follow the required procedures can result in significant fines. This guide outlines the key definitions, timelines, and steps based on established regulations from social security authorities.
A workplace accident is any sudden event arising from or during work, regardless of cause—distinguishing it from occupational diseases, which develop gradually. To qualify, the employee must demonstrate it occurred under their employer's authority, such as on company premises (even during breaks) or at a client site.
The incident must result in immediate bodily or psychological injury. Employees should notify their employer within 24 hours, detailing the location, circumstances, and any witnesses, then consult a doctor promptly for an initial medical certificate documenting the injuries.
Employers must declare the accident within 48 hours of notification, excluding weekends, public holidays, and non-working days. For employees with multiple employers, only the one where the accident occurred files the report.
Initially, provide the employee with the "Work Accident or Occupational Disease Sheet" (Cerfa n° 11383*02) to enable third-party payment and free care up to conventional rates.
Submit the declaration to the employee's primary social security fund: the Caisse Primaire d'Assurance Maladie (CPAM) for general scheme employees or the Mutualité Sociale Agricole (MSA) for agricultural workers.
Employers have two reliable options:
For work stoppages, also submit a salary certificate via net-entreprises.fr or by mail using the "Work Accident or Occupational Disease Salary Certificate" (Cerfa n°11137*02, form n°6202) to calculate daily allowances.
For minor accidents without work stoppage or medical treatment, companies with authorized medical services (e.g., doctor, nurse, or infirmary, approved by Carsat) may log it in the "Infirmary Register" or "Minor Accident Log" within 48 hours—no DAT required.
For temporary workers, notify within 24 hours by registered mail using the "Prior Information for Work Accident Declaration" (Cerfa n°60-3741) to the temp agency, regional health insurance prevention service (CRAM), and Labor Inspectorate.
For interns (pupils or students), immediately send a DAT copy to their educational institution.
Late or missing declarations are offenses: up to €750 fine for individuals or €3,750 for legal entities. The CPAM may also pursue reimbursement of related expenses before the social security court.
