Every employee in the UK has the right to work in a safe environment. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 places a strict duty on your employer to protect you from harm. If they fail in this duty—by providing poor training, unsafe equipment, or a hazardous environment—you are entitled to compensation.

Employment Protection

You Cannot Be Fired

Many workers worry about losing their job if they claim. It is illegal for an employer to sack you for making a personal injury claim. If they do, you could have a further claim for Unfair Dismissal. Most employers have "Employers' Liability Insurance" specifically to pay for these claims, so the money does not come out of the company's bank account.

Proving Employer Negligence

To win a work accident claim, we must show that your employer breached their duty of care. Common examples include:

Common Failures
  • Lack of Training: You were not shown how to use a machine or lift heavy items safely.
  • No PPE: Failure to provide gloves, boots, hard hats, or goggles.
  • Faulty Machinery: Equipment that had missing guards or was not maintained.
  • Poor Housekeeping: Wet floors, trailing cables, or blocked walkways.

Evidence Checklist

If you have been injured at work, try to do the following:

  • Report the accident to your manager immediately.
  • Ensure it is recorded in the Accident Book.
  • Take photos of the hazard or faulty equipment.
  • Get contact details of colleagues who witnessed the incident.
  • See a doctor (GP or A&E) to have your injuries medically recorded.

Frequently Asked Questions

I didn't put it in the Accident Book. Can I claim?

Yes, though it makes it slightly harder. We can use other evidence, such as medical records, text messages to your boss, or witness statements from colleagues to prove the accident happened at work.

I am self-employed / agency worker. Can I claim?

Yes. If you are working under the direction of a company (e.g., on a building site), they still owe you a duty of care, even if you are not a direct PAYE employee. You have the same rights to safety.

Can I claim for lost wages?

Absolutely. "Loss of Earnings" is a major part of the claim. If you only received Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) while off work, we claim back the difference between that and your full normal wage.