An accident that happens in the workplace or while you are working is known as a workplace injury, and if it can be proved that the accident has happened as a result of negligence, it is possible to make a claim for compensation.
An accident at work need not be the fault of the employer, and some injuries are not caused by negligence. However, every workplace should have strict health and safety procedures in place to protect employees and members of the public, and if these are not correctly managed by employers, they may be held responsible for accidents or injuries that occur.
Common Workplace Accidents
It is, of course possible for an accident to happen almost anywhere, but some workplaces, such as construction sites, are statistically more hazardous than others, and some types of accident more commonly occur at work than others. The most common accidents in the workplace include:
- Falls from a height. If you are working at height, you must follow the correct safety procedures and training. If your employer has failed to provide correct training, equipment or guidance, they may be held liable for any injury or accident that results.
- Slipping or tripping. If you slip or trip because correct safety measures are not in place, your employer may be found liable for your accident. For example, if appropriate precautions are not taken when the weather is wet.
- Accidents that involve machinery. Any machinery used in the course of your working day must conform to HSA standards. If an employer has not followed correct procedure here, they may be liable for any accident that results.
- Vehicle accidents. Any crash or collision that involves a vehicle used during working hours may involve negligence if the correct procedures and regulations have not been observed.
- Moving heavy objects. Lifting and manual handling require specialist training, and this must be provided by your employer where it is relevant to your job. If you have been asked to lift or move a load that is unsafe or which you do not have the correct equipment to move safely, you are likely to sustain an injury for which your employer will be held liable.
- Burn injuries. If a burn is caused by a fire or explosion that is the result of negligence on the part of your employer, they may be held responsible for the accident and a compensation claim may be made.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries. RSI is common in many different jobs, and your employer may be held liable if they have not taken appropriate measures to protect their employees against this.
- Injuries sustained where inadequate Personal Protective Equipment is provided. If your job requires PPE, your employer has a duty of care to provide this and to ensure it is maintained. Any breach of this duty that results in an accident or injury can be seen as the fault of your employer.
- Walking into objects. It is fairly common for people to walk into objects by mistake, but if this is because objects have been placed hazardously, your employer may be to blame.
- Being hit by falling objects. This is more common than you might expect, and where this is the result of unsafe premises or equipment, your employer may be held responsible for any accident you sustain.
If you have sustained an injury at work, it is important to discuss your case with a personal injury solicitor as soon as possible to ascertain whether you may be able to make a personal injury claim against your employer. Our experienced office will be happy to help you.
Find Experienced Personal Injury Solicitors in Tralee, Co Kerry
Contact Whelehan Solicitor to arrange a free consultation without obligation. Simply call into our office in Tralee, Co.Kerry, contact us online, or call us today on 066 712 9782.
