The equipment and tools we use to do our jobs must be safe, kept safe and used safely. If they aren’t, the injuries that can be caused can be particularly severe.
The law is there to protect us if we suffer an injury because equipment or tools are defective, not properly maintained or used without appropriate skill or a safe system of work being in place or followed. It does this by placing specific duties on our employers to keep the machinery, equipment and tools employees are expected to use, as well as the way they are used, safe. If you suffer an injury at work because of a defect in equipment, you can claim compensation.
Making a defective equipment accident claim
Employers have a duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees. When it comes to equipment and machinery, employers must make sure they are fit to use and well maintained. They must also make sure safety measures and guards are in place, that the machine is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and that employees wear protective clothing suitable when using or close to the machine or equipment.
The law is particularly strict when it comes to defective equipment because of the inherent dangers involved in employees using machinery. This means that if an employee suffers an injury because of defective equipment provided by their employer, even if the defect is attributable to someone else, the employer will be held responsible – this is known as strict liability, and means the injury is automatically attributed to the employer regardless of whether or not they were negligent.
How much you can claim following a defective equipment accident depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident, how severely you were injured, the impact the injury will have on the rest of your life and any other damage or loss you’ve suffered. It’s important to remember that most employers have insurance covering their liability for workplace accidents. In many cases, this means negotiating with the employer’s insurer to reach a settlement. We have vast experience dealing with employers and their insurers, and will work closely with you to get the maximum amount of compensation you’re entitled to.
Accidents at work: why choose us?
We advise individuals in England, Wales and Northern Ireland on bringing personal injury claims against their employers and, sometimes, against fellow employees. We work quickly to establish the facts, gather evidence and advise on the best legal and tactical approach to take. You will find that we are expert workplace accident solicitors who will support you all the way, as well as skilled negotiators and litigators who will fight your corner.
You don’t need to worry about the expenses involved. Our workplace accident lawyers offer a variety of funding options, will be upfront about the costs involved and can take cases on a no win no fee basis.
Contact our Workplace Accident Lawyers Liverpool, UK
Get in touch with an expert accident at work solicitor at Emerald Law by calling us today on 0333 3052 831 or simply complete our online contact form and one of our experienced first response team members will get back to you.