Accidents at Work

If you have had an accident at work which was not your fault and suffered an injury, you may be able to pursue a claim for compensation for the pain, the suffering the injury has caused, and any losses or expenses you have incurred as a result.

In order to succeed in a claim, you will need to be able to prove that your employer, (or someone else), is at fault either through negligence or breach of statutory duty. You may also be able to pursue a claim if your accident was caused by the negligence of a work colleague.

All employers are responsible for health and safety in the workplace. They are responsible for protecting not only their employees, but also contractors and visitors, from accidents at work. Employers are under a duty to provide a safe place and a safe system of work. Corridors and floors should be kept clean and free from hazards which may cause people to slip or trip. Doors and gates should not be obstructed.

Employers should provide employees with appropriate equipment to ensure that they are able to carry out their work. Employers should also make sure that such equipment is adequately maintained.

Employers should consider whether manual handling is necessary and if so, they should try to reduce the risk of injury as much as possible. They may do this by providing machinery or equipment, or re-organising the way in which the work is carried out.

Employers must also provide employees with appropriate personal protective equipment to ensure that they are safe when carrying out their work, for example: gloves, boots, goggles, hardhats and high visibility jackets.

If you, a friend, or a relative has had an accident at work and suffered an injury, then our experienced Solicitors may be able to help you.

For free initial advice, contact Caroline Christopher, Head of our Personal Injury Department and a Member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers, on 01476 591711 or freephone 0800 389 4832. Alternatively, e-mail details of your accident to cchristopher@birdandco.co.uk.