Did you know that 1.7 million workers in the UK suffered from a work-related illness or injury last year? From mental health disorders to COVID-19 to musculoskeletal disorders, workers in the UK suffered from a multitude of injuries.
If you’ve experienced any of the common accidents at work, you should consider speaking with a lawyer. They can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Read on to learn more about these common injuries at work and what you should do if you experience one.
Common Accidents at Work in the UK
Some of the most common accidents at work in the UK for 2020-2021 include the following:
- Death (142 workers were killed at work)
- Stress, depression, and anxiety (over 820,000 workers)
- Musculoskeletal disorder (470,000 workers)
- COVID-19 due to exposure to the virus at work (93,000)
- Mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure at work (over 2,300)
Other common accidents include slips and falls, injuries from heavy machinery, crashes and collisions, injuries from falling objects, and workplace violence.
What To Do After an Accident at Work
Despite the type of injury or illness suffered at work, you should follow the proper procedures for reporting accidents at work and make sure you get medical treatment. The steps you take in the time after the accident can either help or hurt any workers’ compensation claims you may file.
Seek Medical Care
The first thing you should do is tend to your injuries. Your injuries might appear minor at first, but they could become more severe if left untreated. Go to the hospital to get checked out. Consider asking a work colleague or someone else to drive you, so you don’t put yourself in further danger.
Report the Accident
Each organisation may have different protocols for reporting workplace accidents. Be sure you follow your employee manual so you don’t jeopardise any workplace injury claims.
Depending on the severity of your injuries and how much time you need off of work, your employer also must report the accident to the Health and Safety Executive.
Record the Injury in the Accident Book
Your employer should have an accident book that keeps a record of all workplace accidents. Make sure that your employer records your accident, or else future employees could also be at risk of injury.
If your employer does not record it, send details of the accident to them in writing (via email) so you have documentation of the accident and injury in case there is any question later.
Record the Details
You should note any details that you can remember about the accident. Include details about witnesses, the circumstances surrounding the accident, and the day and time. If possible, take pictures or videos of the accident area.
Keep copies of all of your medical records as well, as these may be needed if you make a workers’ compensation claim.
Consult With a Lawyer
Finally, you should speak to an experienced injury lawyer to ensure that you get the settlement you need. They can help you identify a fair settlement and work with your employer to compensate you adequately.
Workers’ Compensation Claims
Accidents at work can seem overwhelming, especially if you are seriously injured or have to miss work. To make sure that you are compensated fairly, follow proper procedures to report your accident and consult with an injury lawyer.
Contact us today to make a claim or request a callback to discuss your case.
