Content on this page requires a newer version of Adobe Flash Player.

Get Adobe Flash player
Personal injury, youclaim.co.uk

Use personal protective equipment to avoid a factory accident


Unfortunately, accidents in factories are common, especially as there are so many different types of machinery and equipment. Although health and safety regulations should always be followed, large amounts of workers still become involved in an incident of a factory accident.

In anticipation of accidents, employees working at factories must, by law, be provided with personal protective equipment (PPE). The equipment may include head protection and high visibility clothing which can help prevent a factory worker from becoming injured.

Employers must ensure that this equipment is issued free of charge and that employees are given thorough training and instructions on how to use the equipment effectively.

If an employee refuses to use the PPE they are given, they not only risk their own safety, but also their job as there are a number of firms which might see such behaviour as grounds for disciplinary procedures or even dismissal.

However, if an employee is given PPE which they feel might endanger their own safety, they have the right to refuse to use it. For example, if a worker is given high visibility clothing which fits them very poorly, it may hinder their ability to use machinery correctly and they may choose not to wear the garment at all. Employers, by law must provide correctly-fitting PPE, suitable to the task it is being provided for.

Factory employees should also ensure that they fulfil other responsibilities to help cut the risks of an industrial injury happening.

  • If operating machinery, a worker should avoid wearing jewellery and loose clothing which could get caught in the mechanism, and, similarly, headscarves and long hair should be tucked away.

  • An employer must be informed if a machine operator or driver is taking medication which could make them drowsy so that they can be moved to a different job if necessary.

  • Any strains, pains or illnesses an employee is suffering due to work should be reported to the employer immediately. This gives the employer an opportunity to change the way the employee works.

Above all, it is important that all staff co-operate with one another, receive the correct training and that the company's health and safety policies are followed carefully.

Making a compensation claim for a factory accident

If you or a loved one have suffered a factory accident due to a breach of health and safety regulations, you are likely to be entitled to claim compensation for pain, suffering and any loss of earnings.

YouClaim has some of the best personal injury solicitors in the UK who have had many years of experience in helping people receive the compensation they deserve. There are no obligations or pressure for you to continue with a claim unless you are completely sure that you are ready to do so.

For free advice about eligibility for a factory accident claim, speak to one of our legal advisors today. Call 0800 10 757 95, or if you are calling from a mobile, call our mobile friendly number on 0333 240 0871.