Construction sites are perhaps the most dangerous place to work. Because only fit construction workers can work and because injuries are frequent, accident claims are very common in this sector.
The risks on construction sites are many, but they include: dangerous equipment, dangerous materials, the physical strain of the work, working at great heights, heavy machinery and asbestos exposure. Because these dangers are present in the daily working environment, employers and site managers alike have the legal responsibility to equip employees with up to date, correct and appropriate safety information and equipment. The employer must also provide the prescribed rest breaks so that concentration is not impeded.
In the UK, the Health and Safety Commission is responsible for safety regulations. In conjunction with the Construction (Design & Management) 2007 regulations, the commission works to ensure risk of accident is as small as possible.
If it can be proven that an employer has failed to follow health and safety regulations or didn’t do all that was practicable to safeguard employees then workers who are injured may be entitled to make an accident claim. Following the injury, the victim should collect as much information as possible about what happened, including the names and addresses of witnesses. This is especially important because the construction site is an ever changing environment and it is possible that the cause of the injury will be removed as the building process progresses.
It is very important to consult an accident claim solicitor in the event of sustaining an injury on the construction site. This is due to the fact that an injury might leave the employee unable to work for weeks, months or indefinitely. As a result, some people fall into arrears on the mortgage or household bills. In these cases the money won in compensation is all the more vital. Furthermore, the law surrounding accident claims can be complicated so an experienced solicitor will be able to advise. It is also important to know that it is illegal for an employer to sack someone for lodging a personal injury claim against them.
