Accidents and serious injuries can occur both at home and in the workplace. There were approximately just under 132,000 non-fatal injuries reported in 2010, many of which could have easily been prevented with the right procedures in place. The risk of being involved in an accident and sustaining an injury at work decrease with the duration of employment; the most ‘at risk’ period of employment is within the first 4 months.
Acts of parliament, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) and The Provision and use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) mean that employers have a duty to provide and maintain a safe workplace. Although these acts have made a difference to the modern day workforce, accidents still occur due to safety regulations not being upheld and if a serious injury is obtained by an employee, this can have a severe impact on their life through loss of income. Where safety regulations have not been followed, or there has been a breach of protocol leading to an individual sustaining an injury, a personal injury claim, on a no win no fee basis, can help cover the deficit created by loss of income.
Whilst some of the causes of injury may seem obvious (heavy loads, trip hazards, etc.), another cause can be hazardous substances. Exposure to these substances can occur in environments where a wide range of chemicals are used as part of a manufacturing process. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations requires employers to control the levels of exposure to hazardous substances. In some cases though, through spillage or air-borne distribution, exposure occurs causing respiratory problems, burns and skin lesions. This can cause an individual to suffer with lung, liver and other problems as well as the psychological impact such as post traumatic stress.
During this time, the individual affected and their family need support. A no win no fee legal process can help with the costs of pursuing a personal injury claim so that compensation is rightfully obtained when there has been a breach of responsibility.
Serious Law (2011) Accident at work [online] http://www.accidentclaimlaw.co.uk/accident-at-work.php
Serious Law (2011) Hazardous substances [online] http://www.accidentclaimlaw.co.uk/hazardous-substances.php