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Kitchen Worker Suffers Fractured Skull.

The companies accident book revealed many similar incidents, indicating that they had taken no action to rectify the issue, and as such were culpable..

The Judge said. “This was a very serious accident, one which was wholly preventable. Every employer has a duty under law to protect its employees from physical harm – something that [the company] blatantly failed to do. There had been four similar accidents in their kitchen during the previous 12 months, yet they still failed to act.”

The kitchen worker was awarded £36,000, including legal costs.

More case studies . . .

Injured at Work – A Breach of Duty

All employers have a responsibility to safeguard their employees in the workplace. This is known as a 'duty of care', and involves a statutory obligation to look after your welfare.

Many of these laws are laid out in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which amongst other things requires an employer to ensure:-

• The premises is safe;
• Equipment/machinery is appropriate and well maintained;
• The correct training and supervision is provided;
• Exposure to harmful substances (such as chemicals) is controlled;
• Competent staff are employed;
• Regular risk assessments are carried out;
• There are first aid facilities available.

Should an employer fail to comply with these responsibilities, they have breached their duty of care.