Accidents at Work
Compensation for accidents at work
Employers have duties to keep workplaces safe. This guide explains common workplace injuries, evidence and potential claims. It is general information, not an assessment of your case.
General information only · Not legal advice
What is an accident-at-work claim?
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and a body of supporting regulations, employers must provide safe equipment, safe systems of work, proper training, suitable protective equipment and a safe workplace. When they fail to do so and you're hurt, you can claim compensation from their liability insurer.
Claims aren't just for one-off accidents. Long-term industrial disease — hearing loss from noisy machinery, vibration white finger, repetitive strain injury, occupational asthma — are all covered, even years after the exposure ended.
You don't have to fight your employer. You're claiming against their insurance policy, which exists precisely for this purpose.
Common workplace injuries
- Falls from height and ladder accidents
- Slips, trips and falls in the workplace
- Manual handling and lifting injuries
- Crush injuries and machinery accidents
- Construction site accidents
- Industrial deafness and hearing loss
- Vibration white finger and HAVS
- Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
How a workplace claim may be investigated
Gather the evidence
Relevant evidence may include accident-book entries, RIDDOR reports, training records, witness statements and CCTV.
Independent medical assessment
A specialist medical expert assesses your injuries, prognosis and any need for ongoing rehabilitation.
Possible losses and interim payments
An independent solicitor can advise on possible interim payments and valuation of past and future losses.
A note on time limits
You have three years from the date of the accident to start a claim. For industrial disease — such as hearing loss or HAVS — the three years runs from the date you first knew (or should have known) your condition was caused by work.
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose my job if I claim against my employer?
No. It is unlawful for an employer to dismiss or discipline you for bringing a legitimate accident-at-work claim. Compensation is paid by the employer's compulsory liability insurer, not by your employer directly.
What if the accident was partly my fault?
You can usually still claim. Compensation may be reduced to reflect your share of responsibility (called contributory negligence), but a partial recovery is far better than none.
How long do I have to bring a claim?
Three years from the date of the accident, or from when you first realised your injury was work-related (relevant for industrial disease and repetitive strain injuries).
Do I need to have reported the accident?
It helps but it isn't essential. Witness evidence, medical records and the employer's accident book may help establish what happened.
What can I claim for?
Compensation covers pain and suffering, loss of earnings (past and future), medical and rehabilitation costs, travel expenses, and the cost of any care or adaptations you now need.
Related information
Informational website · Not a law firm
Questions about this website?
Contact us about our information. We do not provide legal advice, assess claims or represent clients. Consult a qualified solicitor for advice about your circumstances.