We can help you claim
compensation following an accident
illness or injury - nationwide
Call: 0800 10 757 95
Starting a new job can be an exciting time, particularly for a young person, but, unfortunately, statistics show they are as likely to have an accident – many of which result in an accident at work claim – in the first six months at a workplace as during the whole of the remainder of their working life.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has identified four main reasons why vulnerable employees, such as young people or migrant workers, may be especially liable to suffer a work-related injury or be killed when first taking up a job.
These are lack of experience of the industry or the workplace, lack of familiarity with the job and work surroundings, unwillingness to raise safety concerns, or not knowing how to do so, and being keen to impress colleagues and bosses.
These reasons may mean they may not recognise hazards for the potential risk, rules for use of equipment may not be understood, warning signs may be ignored and short cuts taken.
Employees in all industry sectors need to have the importance of health and safety in the workplace explained to them right at the start of their employment in order to prevent injuries occurring.
In a 2010 analysis of deaths and serious injuries affecting the vulnerable groups of workers, the HSE found that eight out of 16 fatal accidents occurred within the first ten days of the victim starting work on a site and half of those on the very first day.
Although most accidents are in the construction industry, the guidelines for protecting workers apply to all employees and if they are not adhered to employers may be liable for prosecution for failing to prevent an avoidable risk.
The capability of an employee should be assessed, particularly for literacy and numeracy skills to ensure they can understand warning signs and instructions, and a supervised tour of the working area ought to include identification of hazards.
At the same time, the employer or the person delegated in charge of health and safety should check that risk assessments, reporting systems and supervision are all in place to guard against potential work-related accidents.
In the first days and weeks of a new job, it is important that the employee is continually monitored to ensure he understands the importance of safety both for his own welfare and that of workmates or members of the public. Emergency procedures and instructions should also be practised and understood.
YouClaim solicitors for accident at work claim
Whether you have just started a job or have been working for many years for the same employer, if you feel you are entitled to make an accident at work claim, because you have been hurt in an incident which was not your fault, the helpful solicitors will be pleased to give you advice and representation.
YouClaim's team has built up a wealth of experience and expertise in helping people and their families who have suffered as a result of a workplace accident, enabling them to achieve reasonable compensation for pain, suffering and loss of earnings.
Thanks to the internet, we are able to work anywhere in the UK and have an excellent track record in personal injury claims.
To make an initial inquiry to our accident at work law team, you can email us brief details by using the form on this page and we'll get back to you. Alternatively, call us free now on 0800 10 757 95 and speak to one of our legal advisers.
