Falling Object Injuries at Work

Falling Objects

Falling objects are a common cause of injury in the workplace and can arise from a variety of different scenarios. There are certain jobs in which there is a risk of being injured by a falling object, often within retail, factory, warehouse, construction and demolition sites and whilst anyone who undertakes this type of work accepts these risks, employers have a responsibility to ensure their employees are protected from such risks. You are entitled to claim compensation if you have been injured by a falling object where it can be proven that your employer has in some way been responsible.

Here are just some examples of falling objects claims whilst at work:

• Tools and other construction materials falling from a roof or scaffold
• Unsecured objects lifted to a height and falling
• Wall and ceiling fixtures becoming detached and falling
• Machinery parts falling onto a machine operator
• Collapsing shelves
• Files, books and other office stationary falling from a high shelf
• Unstable loads on warehouse shelving
• Heavy work vehicles such as forklift trucks tipping and falling onto employees

 Types of injury caused by a falling object:

 Cuts, lacerations and bruises to the head and face

• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Back injuries
• Concussion
• Fractured skull
• Brain damage

The extent of the injury sustained depends on the size and weight of the object, the height from which it fell and whether or not the victim was wearing protective equipment. More serious injuries such as a fractured skull and permanent brain damage can and do occur and tragically fatalities can and do happen albeit in small numbers.

Why is my employer at fault if the object fell and injured me?

The responsibility for accidents in the workplace setting lies with the employer. Employers must ensure the health and safety of their employees and are governed by a number of regulations including ‘The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974’, ‘The Working at Height Regulations 2005’ and the ‘Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992’. Employers should also take care to thoroughly train their employees and allow adequate breaks.

Being struck by an object whilst at work can cause debilitating injuries resulting in extensive treatment and rehabilitation, not to mention time off work. If you have been injured at work by a falling object and think it could have been prevented please call us to discuss further.

Contact us today for free, no obligation advice regarding your Accident At Work claim – either by calling us free on 0800 028 2060, or by requesting a free call back, whereby one of our team will contact you at a time of your choice, to discuss your situation.

We’re here to help – contact us today.