Start with the issue actually in dispute
Safety-rule violation alleged is mainly a problem of rule, training, actual conduct, and state defense law. Build the file around the written notice, dated record, or event that created the problem.
Documents to gather
Written safety rule, training records, incident report, witness accounts, discipline record, and denial notice.
Questions to answer before acting
- What changed, on what date, and who made the decision?
- Is there a written notice or only a phone conversation?
- Which medical, wage, employment, or incident record directly addresses the dispute?
- What state or federal agency procedure controls the next step?
- Is there a separate employment, third-party, leave, or discrimination issue that should not be mixed into the workers’ compensation question?
Important caution
Verify what the state rule requires rather than assuming any violation defeats the claim.