Accidents at Work: UK at risk of falling behind EU in worker’s rights

According to a recent report by the BBC, the UK is at risk of falling behind the EU when it comes to worker’s rights. The investigation was conducted by the Trade Union Congress (TUC). The union body said the EU had “various initiatives” in the pipeline which would improve standards once they became law. But it said the UK had no similar legislation on the way. This investigation by the TUC, if correct, could have an impact on accidents at work. If you have an accident at work and it is the fault of your employer because they fail to follow procedures, then you may be able to make a claim.

Common workplace hazards can put you at risk, and take you away from the job.

How this can affect accidents at work

If the report by the TUC is correct, then it may not be only worker’s rights that are impacted by companies falling behind. If a company is not adhering to its basic worker’s rights, then they may also not be taking all the steps they can to avoid employees having accidents at work.

The nature of an employee’s work environment may mean they are more likely to have an accident at work, such as jobs in warehouses, building sites and factories. However, this does not mean you can’t suffer an injury in an office environment. But, compared to employees in the construction industry for instance, injuries at work are more prevalent due to its elevated risk whilst working.

Your employer must ensure that you’re working in a safe environment in order to avoid workplace injuries, even if you work in an office. Here are some common workplace injuries that would be a genuine reason   to make an accident at work claim:

  • Electric Shock
  • Eye Injury
  • Head/brain Injuries
  • Fractured/broken bones or dislocated joints
  • Muscle Strains 
  • Slips & Trips – loose carpet, wet floors etc.
  • Falls
  • Exposure to Dangerous Substances
  • Chemical Burns
  • Hearing Damage
  • Falling Object
  • Collisions

Your Employer’s Responsibility

When you are at work, it is your employer’s responsibility to keep you safe. They must adhere to many regulations to ensure they are doing everything they can to avoid accidents and injuries to their employees. These regulations include the Health and Safety Act. it is important that your employer follows these regulations as, not only does it keep you safe, it also ensures that they do not get reprimanded by the Health and Safety Executive.

If employers in the UK are falling behind in their treatment of worker’s rights as the TUC claim, then they are putting their employees at risk of having accidents at work, either through overworking them or not ensuring they are in a safe workspace.

How we can help

Here at The Compensation Experts we work with solicitors who have years of experience dealing with all manner of personal injury claims. This includes accident at work claims. If you have had an accident at work that was due to your employer neglecting their responsibilities, contact us by filling in our contact form. Or call us on 01614138765 to speak to one of our friendly knowledgeable advisors.