accident at work Archives - Bonnar Accident Law

What to Do After Accidents at Work Happen

January 25, 2026/in accident at work /by SEO Adeo

Accidents at work can happen in seconds. One moment everything feels normal, the next you’ve slipped, been struck, or hurt yourself on a job task you’ve done dozens of times. It can leave you shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. That moment matters more than most people realise, not just for your safety, but for your rights and recovery later on.

We’ve seen how uncertainty after accidents at work can lead to missed steps or decisions that later become hard to fix. Knowing what to do early on doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what we suggest you focus on if the unexpected happens.

What to Do in the First Few Minutes

Right after an accident, your top priority is staying safe and getting any medical attention you need. Even if you think the injury is small, stop what you’re doing and check that you’re okay before trying to carry on.

• Step away from the hazard if it’s safe to do so
• Let someone nearby know what happened, a supervisor, manager, or your workplace health and safety lead
• Don’t clean up the scene or adjust anything around you until it’s been looked at and recorded. It might feel natural to make things tidy, but leaving the area untouched helps show clearly what happened

The first few minutes aren’t just about reacting. They’re the beginning of a clear record that can support you later.

Why Reporting the Incident Matters

Telling your employer about the accident might seem obvious, but plenty of people delay it. Some don’t want to be seen as making a fuss. Others worry about how it will look or think it only matters if the injury is serious. But not reporting it can cause bigger problems later.

• Tell someone officially and make sure the accident is logged in the company’s reporting system
• Include dates, times, what you were doing, who was nearby, what went wrong, and how you felt at the time
• Keep your own personal copy of the report or take a photo of it

Even smaller details, like whether the floor was wet or a light wasn’t working, could make a difference over time. Keeping these notes matters more than you might expect.

Seeing a Doctor and Keeping Track of Treatment

Some injuries might not become clear until hours or days later. That’s one reason we always suggest seeing a doctor, even if you feel fine at first. A medical check helps show that you took your health seriously and creates a record of any early signs of injury.

• Go to your GP or a walk-in clinic as soon as you can after the accident
• Write down what the doctor says, especially about what to watch for in the coming days
• Keep a timeline of your symptoms, appointments, and anything that changes with your health

Tracking your health while it happens is much easier than trying to remember everything weeks later. If you need to make a claim or explain time off work, these notes help show why each step took place.

Telling Your Employer vs. Talking to a Legal Professional

Your employer may be helpful, but it’s good to know where that support starts and stops. Their main concern is keeping things running. They may offer workplace adjustments or note your time off, but they aren’t set up to explain what your long-term rights look like after accidents at work.

• Feel free to ask your employer about your sick pay or any internal support options
• Avoid discussing who was at fault, taking blame, or signing statements about how the accident happened without outside advice
• Accident logs and health records are there to protect you, treat them as tools that support both recovery and your choices

Some things are worth double-checking before you agree or sign off on anything, especially when it might affect your wages or job duties down the line.

Handling Time Off, Pay, and Future Work Concerns

Once the initial shock wears off, many people start thinking about how long they’ll need off work and what kind of support they’ll get. These are fair questions, and they’re worth raising early.

• Ask what you’re entitled to through sick pay or statutory leave
• Keep your doctor’s notes handy, especially if your job requires physical tasks
• If your job duties need to change temporarily, be honest about what you can and can’t do

A workplace injury can affect more than your pay slip. It may shift how you feel about your role or your safety at work. Talking about those changes helps you plan for the weeks and months ahead.

Having Professional Support on Your Side

If your accident leads to time off work, medical costs, or ongoing challenges at your job, you should know that help is available. We at Bonnar Accident Law are a team of personal injury solicitors who have been helping people across Scotland since 1977. Our ‘no win, no fee’ promise means that you can seek guidance and representation without worrying about upfront legal expenses. We handle accident at work claims involving everything from falls and lifting injuries to workplace hazards and unsafe conditions.

We specialise in gathering the right evidence and dealing directly with employers or insurance companies so you can focus on recovery. If you’re unsure about your next move or want to avoid common mistakes, this support can make your path smoother.

Moving Forward With Confidence

There’s no perfect script for handling workplace injuries, but there are steps that make a real difference. Reporting things properly, getting checked by a doctor, and not rushing into decisions all help take some of the stress off your shoulders.

If you’re based in Glasgow or nearby, you’re likely already dealing with cold weather during late January. Wet floors, icy car parks, and longer hours in indoor spaces can raise the chances of things going wrong. Acting clearly and early makes it easier to show what happened and why support matters.

Accidents at work can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you’re not sure what each action means. But following a few early steps can help you feel more settled and make a hard situation easier to manage. When injuries happen, it’s not just about getting through the day, it’s about making sure your health and rights are looked after as things move forward.

Understanding your rights after a workplace injury can make a big difference during a stressful time. Whether your accident was recent or happened weeks ago, staying informed early on can help you make confident decisions. We’ve supported people throughout Glasgow and beyond as they move forward after unexpected challenges. For more guidance on what matters after accidents at work, contact Bonnar Accident Law today.

Construction Industry Safety: Top Tips for Workers and Employers

June 29, 2025/in accident at work /by SEO Adeo

Welcome to our guide on construction industry safety. Whether you’re building tall skyscrapers or working on smaller projects, keeping safe on-site is critical. When every worker looks out for themselves and their team, the workplace becomes safer and more productive. Safety isn’t just about rules – it’s about looking out for each other so everyone can go home safe at the end of the day.

Exploring what makes a site safe helps both workers and employers reduce risks. This isn’t just standard procedure, it’s a shared effort to make sure that everyone on site is protected and confident in their environment. Let’s take a look at some simple and effective ways to improve safety in construction.

Understanding the Risks

Construction work has its rewards, but it doesn’t come without risk. Accidents from falls, trips, or mishandling tools and machinery are common. Even a quick task can turn risky if proper care isn’t taken. By understanding where the dangers are, you take the first step in preventing injuries.

Both workers and employers should stay aware of what’s happening around them. Something as straightforward as knowing where machines are being used or making sure walkways are clear can make all the difference. Clear awareness helps everyone respond better and prevents many accidents before they start.

Safety Tips for Workers

Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Taking simple, smart steps each day can help keep you and your coworkers safe.

1. Wear Proper Protective Gear

Helmets, gloves, goggles, and sturdy boots are more than just part of a uniform. They protect you from falling objects, sharp tools, and slippery spots. Wearing the proper gear could be the difference between a close call and a serious injury.

2. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Watch where you’re stepping and what’s moving around you. Construction sites are active spaces where change is constant. Being alert helps you spot hazards early and avoid them. Put away distractions like phones while working.

3. Use Equipment Properly

Before using any tool or machine, be sure you know how to operate it safely. Follow instructions and never take shortcuts. If something seems unsafe or broken, let a supervisor know right away.

Taking charge of your own safety also helps those around you. When everyone commits to safety, the whole team benefits.

Safety Tips for Employers

Employers have a big role in creating and maintaining a safe site. Workers rely on managers and site leaders to put strong safety measures in place and follow through on them every day.

1. Conduct Regular Training

Training isn’t a one-time task. Keeping workers updated with regular sessions helps them learn about new risks and ways to avoid them. Well-informed workers make better decisions and handle situations more calmly and correctly when things go wrong.

2. Maintain Equipment

Don’t wait until a machine fails. Regular maintenance on tools, ladders, lifts, and other machinery reduces the chance of injury. Check everything often and fix or replace anything that shows signs of wear. Make sure your equipment meets safety standards before use.

3. Implement Safety Protocols

Have clear rules in place and make sure everyone follows them. Post safety signs around the site and talk about safety at meetings. Workers should never have to wonder what the safety steps are – they should be part of everyday routines.

Good safety management builds trust, improves performance, and protects everyone.

Creating a Safety-First Culture

Great safety programs go beyond training and gear. A strong culture is what ties it together, where all team members – no matter their role – value safety and support one another.

1. Encourage Open Communication

Workers should know they can speak up if something feels unsafe or has gone wrong. Give them clear ways to report problems without embarrassment or fear. When workers are confident they’ll be heard, they’re more likely to report hazards quickly and accurately.

2. Recognize Safe Practices

Thank workers who follow safety steps and take action to protect their teammates. This could be as simple as a mention in a meeting or a small reward. It shows that safety is noticed and appreciated, which encourages others to do the same.

Culture can’t be built overnight, but by setting the tone from the top and celebrating the right habits, employers can create sites where workers feel safe and supported.

Prioritise Safety for a Better Workplace

Making safety a part of the job means more than posting rules or doing a quick training. It means creating a shared mindset where everyone plays their part. Both workers and employers have the power to make every construction site a safer place to be.

From wearing the right gear to maintaining equipment and speaking up when something isn’t right, every action matters. Employers who stay engaged and lead with safety help their teams build better, work smarter, and reduce accidents.

By working together and sticking to these simple practices, we keep each other safe and build stronger teams across Scotland’s construction industry. Let’s make safety a daily habit rather than a one-time task. It starts with awareness, but it grows through action and commitment on every site.

Building a strong safety culture takes effort and teamwork. If you ever find yourself needing support or facing challenges on a construction site, remember that injury lawyers in Scotland can help you understand your rights and take action when something goes wrong. At Bonnar Accident Law, we’re here to provide guidance and make sure you get the help you need when accidents happen. Let’s work together to keep construction sites safe and productive for everyone.

The Importance of Reporting Accidents at Work: A Step-by-Step Guide

June 22, 2025/in accident at work /by SEO Adeo

Accidents at work can happen to anyone at any time, and knowing how to handle them is really important. Reporting them might seem like an extra task, but it has significant benefits. When you report an accident, you’re not just following a rule; you’re making sure that potential risks are tackled, reducing the chances of similar incidents in the future. This responsibility serves everyone in the workplace, fostering a safer environment for colleagues and yourself.

The importance of reporting cannot be overstated, as it creates a record that might be needed for any claims or assessments. Imagine dealing with a slippery floor in your office. If you report a slip incident, it prompts the necessary repairs, keeping that space safe for everyone. Once we understand why it’s so important, we start seeing the bigger picture of safety and prevention. Knowing these actions help everyone’s well-being may encourage a more diligent approach to reporting.

Understanding the Importance of Reporting Work Accidents

Reporting accidents is not just a formality. It’s about keeping people safe and meeting legal requirements. In the UK, employers must keep records and report certain injuries and incidents under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations, commonly called RIDDOR. This ensures issues are flagged up and dealt with properly.

Reporting helps make sure any problems are looked into and that steps are taken to stop the same thing happening again. It keeps employers responsible for creating a safer workspace and shows staff that their safety is taken seriously.

It also builds awareness of risks in the workplace. For example, if someone slips in a hallway due to poor lighting or spillage, that incident being reported might lead to better lighting or new cleaning procedures. Simple reporting leads to real improvements, protecting everyone in the long run.

Immediate Steps to Take After an Accident

Knowing what to do quickly after a workplace accident can make things a lot easier later.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Make sure everyone is safe. If the area is dangerous, remove any hazards or stay away from them.
2. Get medical attention. Even minor injuries should be looked at. Some problems don’t show up straight away.
3. Report the accident to your employer or safety officer as soon as possible. This gets the issue on record.
4. Write down the details. Include what happened, when, where, and if anyone witnessed it.
5. Take photos if you can. Pictures of the scene can help explain what happened.
6. Follow your company’s reporting procedures so nothing is left out.

These steps help ensure your report is complete and that action can be taken quickly.

Communicating with Your Employer

Telling your employer about a workplace accident is key. Acting fast and clearly helps get things sorted and could stop it happening again.

Start by telling your line manager or supervisor as quickly as you can. A phone call, face-to-face chat or email will do. The sooner the employer knows about the issue, the quicker they can respond.

Be clear and factual. Include when and where it happened, what caused it, whether anyone else was there, and any pain or injury you’ve had since. Keep to what happened and leave out opinions.

It’s helpful to put your report in writing as well. This builds a proper record that can be useful later. What you write should match what you said earlier, and it should cover all the key details.

Documenting the Incident

Keeping a clear record of what happened is one of the most practical things you can do after an accident. This makes it easier to explain your account and show the impact of what took place.

Start where you can. If possible, take photos of the exact spot where the incident occurred. Show things like spills, positions of equipment, or damaged walkways. A visual record helps clear up what might otherwise be confused or forgotten.

Keep copies of any documents given to you after the incident. This might include medical forms, doctor’s notes, or emails with your employer. These help convert your experience into proof, backing up your story when needed.

Also keep a timeline from the day of the accident to your recovery. This can help if you’re asked to describe your injury later or apply for compensation.

Navigating the Claims Process

If you’re thinking about making a claim for a workplace injury, knowing the steps in the process can help you feel a bit more in control.

First, check that the incident has been properly recorded by your employer. This is usually the first document needed when adding to a claim file.

Then, pull together all the paperwork related to the accident. This includes your timeline, photos, medical reports, and emails. Keeping this all in one folder makes things easier down the line.

You don’t have to handle everything alone. Getting legal advice early on can help you understand your rights and know what kind of support or compensation may be available. Often, the process involves answering questions, gathering proof, and being clear with your reasons for making a claim.

Being prepared makes things go more smoothly and helps you avoid delays.

Ensuring Ongoing Safety

Good reporting isn’t just about reacting. It also makes a big difference in helping everyone stay safer at work going forward.

When accidents are reported, employers are more likely to change rules, provide better training, or fix risky setups. You’re helping the company stay alert and reduce the odds of someone else getting hurt.

People who speak up when something isn’t right help create that safer workplace. It’s not about blaming anyone. It’s just making sure changes happen when they’re needed.

Simple things like noting slippery floors, cluttered walkways, or poorly lit areas can help others avoid the same risks. When the workplace takes reporting seriously, safety becomes part of the daily culture, not something ignored until it’s too late.

When to Seek Legal Advice

There are times when talking to a solicitor can make a real difference. If your employer isn’t listening, your injury is serious, or your claim is being delayed, it might be time to call in expert support.

You don’t have to worry about legal talk or feel nervous about reaching out. The role of a personal injury solicitor is to make things easier, not harder. They help handle forms, explain your options, and tell you what to expect from the process.

At Bonnar Accident Law, we support clients across Scotland who’ve had to deal with workplace accidents. Whether it’s helping gather evidence or speaking on your behalf, we’re here to support those who need legal backing to get their voice heard.

Stay Safe and Report Accidents Promptly

Reporting accidents quickly helps improve safety and can prevent future harm. It also protects your rights, especially when you need proof later on.

Don’t wait until problems build up. If something happens, take the right steps. Report it, document it, talk openly, and when needed, ask for support.

This simple habit can change the way your workplace handles risk. Everyone plays a part, and speaking up helps protect not just yourself, but also your team moving forward. Keeping safety front and centre starts with action. Reporting is that action.

Taking the right steps after an accident can make all the difference. If you need help understanding what to do next, Bonnar Accident Law is here to support you. We can walk you through the road traffic accidents claims process and help make sure everything is handled properly. Reach out today to get the guidance you need.

Accidents at Work: Common Causes and How to Prevent Them

November 28, 2024/in accident at work /by SEO Adeo

Accidents at work are a significant issue that affects thousands of workers across the UK each year. No workplace, whether a busy construction site or a quiet office, is free from hazards. The accident at work solicitors specialises in accident claims. We see firsthand how a seemingly ordinary day can suddenly become a life-changing event for individuals. While some accidents happen due to unforeseen circumstances, many accidents can be prevented by implementing appropriate safety measures. The Bonnar Accident Law aims to raise awareness about the most common causes of workplace accidents and how to avoid them.

Read our comprehensive guide on the 20 most common causes of accidents at work and how you can avoid these.

20 Most Common Workplace Accidents

Be it a construction site, a corporate office, a restaurant, a warehouse, etc., accidents at work can happen anywhere, anytime.

Here are the most common causes that our accident-at-work solicitors have dealt with over the years:

01. Slips, Trips, and Falls

How it happens:
These occur when floors are wet, cluttered, or uneven.

How to prevent it:
Clean spills immediately, use warning signs and ensure floors are dry and clutter-free. Regularly inspect flooring for hazards, ensure spills are cleaned immediately, and provide slip-resistant mats in high-traffic areas. Implement clear pathways and use proper signage to warn of risks.

Real-life scenario example:
Sarah, an office assistant in Glasgow, slipped on a wet floor near the coffee machine because there was no warning sign after it was mopped.

02. Manual Handling Injuries

How it happens:
Lifting, pulling, or carrying heavy items improperly can cause back or muscle injuries.

How to prevent it:
Train employees on proper lifting techniques and provide trolleys or lifting aids. Provide appropriate lifting equipment, such as trolleys or hoists. Encourage workers to seek help when handling heavy loads.

Real-life scenario example:
Mike, a warehouse worker in Edinburgh, strained his back lifting a heavy box of tools without assistance or a trolley.

03. Falling Objects

How it happens:
Items falling from shelves or scaffolding can result in serious injuries.

How to prevent it:
Secure all items stored at height, use toe boards, and ensure hard hats are worn on-site. Store items securely, avoid overloading shelves, and use safety nets or toe boards in elevated areas. Require hard hats in zones where falling objects are a risk.

Real-life scenario example:
Liam, a construction worker in Aberdeen, was hit by a loose brick that fell from scaffolding overhead.

04. Machine-Related Injuries

How it happens:
Improperly used or malfunctioning machinery can lead to cuts, amputations, or entanglements.

How to prevent it:
Install and maintain safety guards on machinery and provide training on proper usage. Train employees on machinery use, perform regular maintenance checks, and install proper safety guards and emergency stop buttons on equipment.

Real-life scenario example:
Emily, a factory worker in Dundee, cut her hand when using a machine without its safety guard in place.

05. Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)

How it happens:
RSI often results from repetitive tasks, such as typing or assembly work.

How to prevent it:
Provide ergonomic keyboards and chairs, and encourage breaks to stretch and relax. Encourage ergonomic workstations, provide regular breaks, and educate employees on posture and stretching exercises.

Real-life scenario example:
Olivia, a data entry clerk in Inverness, developed wrist pain after months of typing without ergonomic equipment.

06. Electric Shock

How it happens:
Faulty wiring or misuse of electrical equipment can cause shocks or burns.

How to prevent it:
Use qualified electricians for installations, inspect wiring regularly, and educate employees on safe practices. Ensure all electrical installations are performed by qualified electricians, conduct regular equipment inspections, and provide training on the safe use of electrical devices.

Real-life scenario example:
Josh, an electrician in Stirling, suffered an electric shock from faulty wiring in an old building.

07. Workplace Fires

How it happens:
Fires can result from faulty wiring, flammable materials, or unattended equipment.

How to prevent it:
Conduct fire risk assessments, avoid overloading sockets, and ensure staff are trained in fire evacuation procedures. Install fire alarms and extinguishers, and train staff on evacuation procedures. Store flammable materials properly and keep escape routes clear.

Real-life scenario example:
Grace, a retail manager in Perth, was caught in a small fire caused by an overloaded electrical socket in the staff room.

08. Chemical Exposure

How it happens:
Improper handling of hazardous substances can cause burns, poisoning, or respiratory issues.

How to prevent it:
Train employees on chemical handling and supply protective gear like gloves and goggles. Provide proper training on handling chemicals, supply protective equipment like gloves and masks, and store chemicals in labelled secure containers.

Real-life scenario example:
Harry, a lab technician in Paisley, accidentally splashed a corrosive substance on his arm due to improper handling.

09. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

How it happens:
Continuous exposure to loud noises can damage hearing.

How to prevent it:
Provide earplugs or noise-cancelling earmuffs and schedule hearing checks for at-risk employees. Use soundproofing where possible, enforce the use of hearing protection, and schedule regular hearing tests for employees in noisy environments.

Real-life scenario example:
Jack, an engineer in East Kilbride, noticed hearing loss after years of working near loud machinery without ear protection.

10. Vehicle-Related Accidents

How it happens:
Forklifts, trucks, or other vehicles used at work can cause injuries if not operated safely.

How to prevent it:
Mark clear traffic routes, enforce speed limits and ensure operators are fully trained. Ensure all operators are licensed and trained, maintain vehicles regularly, and enforce speed limits and traffic routes on-site.

Real-life scenario example:
Sophie, a forklift operator in Livingston, accidentally collided with shelving due to unclear traffic markings in the warehouse.

11. Stress-Related Illness

How it happens:
High levels of stress can lead to physical or mental health issues.

How to prevent it:
Foster open communication, provide stress management training, and encourage work-life balance. Promote early detection of stress, provide mental health benefits, and offer access to counselling services. Enforce a no-contact-after-work policy to ensure a healthy work-life balance.

Real-life scenario example:
Hannah, a project manager in Cumbernauld, developed anxiety due to excessive workload and lack of support.

12. Falls from Height

How it happens:
This is a major risk in construction or warehouse settings.

How to prevent it:
Use stabilised ladders, and fall protection gear like harnesses, and ensure proper training for working at height. Use fall protection equipment like harnesses and guardrails, inspect ladders and scaffolds regularly, and train employees on working safely at heights.

Real-life scenario example:
Ben, a roofer in Hamilton, fell from a ladder that wasn’t secured properly during a job.

13. Fatigue-Related Errors

How it happens:
Overworked or tired employees are more prone to mistakes.

How to prevent it:
Enforce reasonable working hours, provide regular breaks, and encourage employees to take time off when needed.

Real-life scenario example:
Tom, a junior doctor in Kirkcaldy, made a mistake on a prescription after a 16-hour shift.

14. Workplace Violence

How it happens:
Conflicts between employees or customers can escalate into physical altercations.

How to prevent it:
Train employees in conflict resolution and ensure there are clear reporting procedures and security measures in place. Establish clear policies against workplace violence, provide conflict resolution training, and ensure there is a safe mechanism for reporting concerns.

Real-life scenario example:
Ella, a customer service representative in Dunfermline, was physically attacked by an angry customer during her shift.

15. Exposure to Extreme Temperatures

How it happens:
Working in very hot or cold conditions can cause heat stroke or hypothermia.

How to prevent it:
Provide appropriate clothing and ensure regular breaks in warm areas. Schedule regular breaks in controlled environments, and supply water or heating/cooling facilities as needed. Tailor your work attire according to the temperature at your site or office.

Real-life scenario example:
Noah, a scaffolder in Ayr, suffered from frostbite after working in freezing conditions without proper gloves.

16. Ergonomic Issues

How it happens:
Poorly designed workstations or tools can lead to musculoskeletal disorders.

How to prevent it:
Offer ergonomic furniture and conduct workstation assessments to fit employees’ needs. Conduct ergonomic assessments, adjust workstations to fit employees, and supply ergonomic tools such as adjustable chairs and keyboards.

Real-life scenario example:
Lucy, a designer in Kilmarnock, developed neck and shoulder pain from working on a non-adjustable desk.

17. Inadequate Training

How it happens:
Untrained employees are more likely to cause or experience accidents.

How to prevent it:
Ensure all employees receive thorough training and have access to proper supervision. Provide thorough training for all roles, conduct regular refresher courses, and ensure employees understand emergency procedures.

Real-life scenario example:
Daniel, a construction apprentice in Greenock, injured his hand using a power tool he wasn’t trained to operate.

18. Lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

How it happens:
Not using or having access to proper PPE increases the risk of injuries.

How to prevent it:
Supply PPE like gloves and goggles and enforce its mandatory use. Enforce the use of PPE, such as helmets, gloves, goggles, and masks, and educate employees on their proper use.

Real-life scenario example:
Megan, a painter in Dumfries, suffered from chemical burns because she wasn’t provided with gloves when using solvent-based paint.

19. Inadequate Emergency Procedures

How it happens:
Unpreparedness for emergencies, such as evacuations, can lead to chaos and injury.

How to prevent it:
Regularly conduct emergency drills and ensure evacuation plans are communicated and accessible. Develop clear emergency response plans, conduct regular drills, and ensure fire exits and first aid kits are readily accessible.

Real-life scenario example:
George, an office worker in Falkirk, panicked during a fire alarm because he wasn’t aware of the evacuation plan.

20. Poor Housekeeping

How it happens:
Cluttered or disorganised spaces increase the likelihood of accidents.

How to prevent it:
Maintain a clean and organised workplace, and establish daily cleaning schedules. Dispose of waste promptly, and establish regular cleaning schedules.

Real-life scenario example:
Isla, a retail assistant in Motherwell, tripped over an abandoned box in a stockroom aisle.

Why Prevention is Always Better

The statistics are quite sobering when viewed but behind each number is a real person. An office worker who slipped on a wet office floor and fractured their wrist, another whose back strain from improper manual handling left them unable to work for weeks, and someone who suffered severe burns due to inadequate electrical safety protocols; all have stories that highlight preventable gaps in workplace safety. The claim for such injuries can range from a few thousand pounds for minor harm to six-figure sums for life-altering injuries. However, the emotional and physical toll of these accidents often outweighs any financial redress.

The good news is that most accidents are avoidable through proper training, strict adherence to safety policies, and fostering a culture of awareness. Employers are legally obligated to provide safe working environments, and employees must remain vigilant to identify and report hazards. At its core, workplace safety is about protecting people and livelihoods. While compensation provides much-needed financial support in the aftermath of an accident, prevention is always the better strategy.

Hire Accident at Work Solicitors from Bonnar Accident Law

By addressing these common causes of workplace accidents and implementing preventative measures, businesses can create a safer environment for employees. This not only reduces the risk of injury but also boosts morale and productivity. If an accident does occur, consulting an experienced accident-at-work solicitor ensures your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.

Understanding workers’ rights after such incidents is crucial; not just for securing compensation but also for fostering change that ensures others don’t face the same fate. But if you do get into an accident at work, call Bonnar Accident Law. Our accident-at-work solicitors in Scotland are professional experts with vast experience in getting the affected workers the claim they deserve.

We will assess your case, understand your situation, take care of the paperwork while you recover, and get you the claim you deserve for your accident at work. We operate on a no-win-no-fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about the initial payments.

Call us and let us help you!

Accidents in the Workplace: All You Need to Know

May 18, 2021/in accident at work /by adeo

What are the most common causes of workplace accidents and injuries

Whether you work in the construction industry or in a 9am to 5pm office job, accidents are unpredictable and can happen anywhere, at any time.

If you’ve been injured in an accident at work that wasn’t your fault, we understand you might feel hesitant to make a claim for compensation due to concerns over your job security. However, your employer has a duty of care to ensure that your working environment is as safe as it possibly can be, so to prevent any accidents as a result of negligence, that could be entirely avoided otherwise.

Whilst nobody can ever predict when an accident will happen, accidents at work remain one of the most common reasons for compensation claims every year; the Labour Force Survey reported that 693,000 workers in the UK sustained a non-fatal injury at work in 2019/20.

In this blog, we explore all you need to know about making a claim for compensation, following an accident at work.

What are the most common causes of workplace accidents and injuries?

Slips, trips or falls
Faulty lifting and manual handling practices brought on by lack of training
Being struck by a falling object
Falling from a height
Workplace violence
Contact with moving machinery
Dangerous working practices
Poor or non-existent personal protective equipment (PPE)
Weak risk assessments or poorly enforced safety procedures
Preventable spillages
Poorly maintained equipment

Can I claim for my accident at work?

If your employer fails to provide a safe working environment and you are injured as a result, you can and should make a claim for compensation both for the injury as well as any loss of work or earnings. In some instances, you may be able to claim even if you caused the accident, for example if your injuries were made worse due to a faulty piece of equipment or if a workplace accident made an existing injury or condition worse.

Whether the accident happened in your workplace or if you were carrying out work for your employer in a different location, whether you’re employed full or part time, and no matter the size of the business, none of these factors affect your eligibility to make a claim. Even if your accident was caused by a visiting member of the public or the actions of a colleague, your employer is ultimately responsible for keeping you from harm in your workplace.

Typically, in the UK you have three years from the date of your accident to make a claim. There are exceptions to this rule however, we recommend if you have been injured in an accident at work, that you get in touch with us as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed well within the time limits.

If I make a claim against my employer, will I lose my job?

Employers by law, are required to have employers liability insurance that covers employees who make a claim following an accident at work. This mean that it will be an insurance company you would be dealing with and who would award you the compensation if your claim were to be successful. Additionally, it is illegal for your employer to fire you purely on the basis that you made a claim for an injury at work. If this were to happen, you may then have a further case against your employer for unfair dismissal and could pursue legal action against them.

How do I make a claim for a workplace accident?

If you are injured in a workplace accident that wasn’t your fault, any supporting evidence you can gather at that time can go a long way in strengthening your claim for compensation. If you are able to gather any photographic evidence or any witness statements of the accident, these can help to prove your employers’ negligence which is key to a workplace accident claim. Keeping a record of your injuries, any hospital treatment and any financial loss can further assist your case.

Here at Bonnar Accident Law, we understand the concerns you’ll have following a workplace accident. We’ll take your case on a No Win No Fee basis, covering all the upfront costs to ensure that your claim the best chance of success. We will also deal directly with your employers’ insurance company so you don’t have to worry and can focus on your recovery.

Our lawyers specialise in an accident at work claims and will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve to get back on your feet or pay for long-term care and rehabilitation.

If you have been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault and you would like more information, please get in touch with one of our No Win No Fee solicitors today.

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