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Construction Accidents

By Julie Glynn

Republish: EasyPublish™ Published: 26Nov2011 Word count: 479 Viewed: 318 time(s) Get Free Content For Your Site

The UK's construction industry is widely considered to be one of the safest in the world. But despite this glowing reference, building sites remain a particularly dangerous place, and accidents continue to happen every day.

Construction Accidents and Injuries.

Construction sites pose many hazards, and consequently the types of accidents are many and varied. Some of the most common we have seen include:-

* Injury caused by falling objects;

* Falls from a height;

* Faulty machinery;

* Defective or lack of equipment;

* Electrocution;

* Construction site vehicles;

* Demolition accidents.

As the above examples demonstrate, construction accidents can be very serious, and will often cause extreme harm to the injured party. Most commonly such accidents will lead to damage to the spine and head, as well as crushing injuries (particularly to the limbs). At best, an injured employee will need medical intervention and time off work to recover. However, it is possible that he/she will be left to suffer long-term complications.

Who Is Responsible?

If this has happened to you, your life will inevitably have been turned upside down, causing you physical, financial and emotional turmoil. It is likely you will be feeling angry and upset, and may have questions such as: who is responsible for my accident? What action can I take? And am I entitled to compensation?

All construction accidents are different, and so the answers to these questions will not always be the same. However, what is of utmost importance is that your employer has a legal duty to protect your health, safety and welfare in the workplace. This means it is their responsibility to enforce a safe system of work, ensure this system is being followed by staff, and to carry out regular risk assessments of the workplace. If these assessments highlight any hazards, an employer must then take steps to implement safety measures, thereby helping to eradicate risks. Amongst other things, this may include providing protective personal equipment, carrying out inspections of machinery, or insisting on the use of harnesses.

If your employer does not take steps that are 'reasonably practicable' to protect your welfare at work, then he/she has breached their legal responsibility. In such an event, your employer will then be held liable for your accident, and you will be able to make a personal injury claim. If successful, you will be awarded compensation for your injuries.

Making a Claim.

If you have suffered as a result of a construction accident, you need to speak to a legal expert as soon as possible. A solicitor who specialises in this area of the law will be able to offer their professional advice, helping you discover whether or not you have a claim, and what action you should take next.

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