A fall from a height can occur in many different types of situations and in many different professions. You may think that just because a receptionist falls from a chair whilst changing a light bulb, or a librarian falls from ladders putting a book on a shelf, that these types of accident cannot be claimed for. This thought process may be due to thinking that it is only in the obvious types of careers such as builders, roofers, or scaffolders where height is a normal, daily part of their job that claims regarding falling from a height can be successfully made.
This, however, is not the case; it may be true that these types of claims are more common in the careers mentioned above – but anyone in any career can possibly claim compensation for a fall from a height which caused them injury and was not their fault.
Employers have a duty to protect their employees from any risks to their Health and Safety as far as is reasonably possible. They must adhere to strict Health and Safety Regulations, and particularly, in the case of this blog, the Work at Height Regulations 2005. The topic of this blog need not be on the ins and outs of this legislation. However, what can be taken from it is that employers should plan a working at height situation carefully – it should be properly supervised and the correct equipment for the job provided. This equipment must also be properly maintained and stored with the users of it trained in how to utilise the equipment correctly.
If you have had an accident at work it is important to report it, and an entry in an accident book may need to be made. You should seek medical assistance for your injuries – this allows your injuries to be assisted with and the medic can place a record in your medical notes. It is also advisable to take photographic evidence of your injuries as this may be needed as evidence in any later claim you may have. Lastly, seek the advice of a specialist personal injury lawyer who will act on your behalf in the claim. This may be particularly important with employers, as at The Injury Lawyers we do appreciate that claiming against your employer can be a mentally difficult task.
If you think you have a claim and just want to talk then feel free to give us a call.
