- What Is an Injury at Work? An injury at work refers to any physical or psychological harm suffered by an employee while performing job duties. These injuries can happen in offices, factories, construction sites, or even while working remotely. Common causes include accidents, unsafe practices, and employer negligence.
- Types of Workplace Injuries in the UK
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Manual handling injuries (lifting, pulling, pushing)
- Falls from height
- Machinery accidents
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSI)
- Exposure to harmful substances
- Stress-related and psychological harm
- Who Can Claim for an Injury at Work in the UK? You may be eligible if:
- You were injured during the course of your employment
- The injury happened due to employer negligence or unsafe conditions
- The incident occurred within the last three years
- You were an employee, contractor, temp, or agency worker
- Employer’s Legal Responsibilities Employers in the UK must:
- Provide a safe working environment
- Conduct risk assessments
- Offer appropriate training and supervision
- Maintain equipment and machinery
- Report serious injuries to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
- Have valid employer’s liability insurance
- What to Do After an Injury at Work
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Report the accident to your manager or supervisor
- Ensure it is recorded in the accident book
- Take photos of the scene and any injuries
- Collect witness statements if possible
- Contact a personal injury solicitor
- Can You Claim If You Were Partly at Fault? Yes. You can still claim compensation under contributory negligence rules. Your compensation may be reduced based on your level of responsibility, but you won’t be barred from claiming.
- No Win No Fee Workplace Injury Claims Many UK solicitors offer no win no fee agreements (Conditional Fee Agreements), which mean:
- No upfront legal costs
- You only pay if your claim is successful
- A capped success fee (up to 25%) is deducted from your compensation
- Often includes insurance to protect you from paying costs if the claim fails
- What Compensation Can You Claim? You can claim for:
- General damages: Pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Special damages: Financial losses, including:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Travel expenses
- Loss of earnings and future income
- Cost of care and assistance
- Adaptations to home or transport
- Time Limit for Making a Claim In most cases, you have three years from:
- The date of the accident
- Or the date you became aware the injury was caused by your job
- Can You Be Fired for Making a Claim?
No. It is illegal for employers to dismiss or penalise an employee for making a valid workplace injury claim. You are protected by UK employment and health & safety laws.
- Psychological Injuries at Work
You can also claim for emotional or mental harm, such as:
- Workplace stress
- Anxiety or depression caused by excessive workload or bullying
- PTSD following a traumatic incident
A formal diagnosis is needed to support this type of claim.
- Industrial Disease Claims
Some injuries or illnesses develop over time, including:
- Hearing loss
- Lung disease from toxic exposure
- Asbestos-related conditions
- Repetitive strain injuries
Claims must be made within three years of diagnosis or the date you became aware of the illness’s link to your work.
- Accidents While Working Off-Site
If your job involves off-site work (e.g., driving, home visits, construction), you can still claim if the injury occurred during work activities and your employer failed in their duty of care.
- Evidence Needed for a Work Injury Claim
- Medical reports
- Accident book entries
- Photos or videos of the accident scene
- Witness statements
- Employment records
- Proof of financial losses
- How Long Does an Injury at Work Claim Take?
- Straightforward claims: 3–6 months
- Complex or disputed claims: 6–18 months or more
Timeframes depend on liability, the extent of your injuries, and the evidence available.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to use a solicitor?
No, but using a solicitor greatly improves your chances of success and ensures you receive full compensation. - What if the company has shut down?
You can still claim if they had employer’s liability insurance in place at the time of the accident. - Is my claim confidential?
Yes. Your claim is handled discreetly, and your employer cannot retaliate against you. - Can I claim for a minor injury?
Yes. Even small injuries can lead to time off work and expenses. - Can I switch solicitors if I’m unhappy?
Yes, though check your current agreement for any exit terms. - Will I have to go to court?
Most cases are settled out of court. You’ll only go to court if there’s a serious dispute.
Conclusion
Suffering an injury at work in the UK can be overwhelming, but the law is on your side. You have the right to claim compensation for your injuries, financial losses, and the impact on your life. With no win no fee options and expert legal support, starting your claim is simple, affordable, and focused on your recovery. Don’t wait—protect your rights and start your claim today.