Office accidents and your right to compensation
Published: 18/04/2016
Whilst there appears to be a general acceptance and understanding for workplace accidents which occur in factories or on a building site, many are unclear about claiming for accidents which happen in offices. Offices however can be hazardous places and employers have the same duty of care to protect its staff. If this doesn’t happen, then you may have the right to compensation.
Common office accidents
The most common accidents in an office are slips, trips and falls. This can include:
- Slipping on a spilt drink
- Tripping over computer or electrical wires
- Tripping over poorly stored boxes and bags.
Other accidents at work can include:
- Burns and electric shocks
- Falling objects
- Repetitive strain injury.
Workers can also suffer from back and neck ache caused by poor quality seating.
A lot of the time, when it comes to office accidents, it’s about common sense. However if the employer has received previous warning about hazards within the office such as poor/insufficient storage or exposed wiring and an accident then occurs then they have neglected their responsibility.
If you do suffer an accident at work you must:
- Record it in the company’s accident log
- Get a photograph of the scene and your injury (if appropriate)
- Obtain statements from any witnesses
- See a medical professional.
Speak to one of our team about making an claim for an accident at work
Content correct at time of publication