Slab Injuries in Stonemasonry

Workplace Negligence May Result In Claims

Stonemasons’ work requires working with large pieces of stone, so slab injuries in stonemasonry can and do happen. A stonemason’s normal working day may include chiselling intricate patterns or shifting heavy stone slabs. They may work with a variety of stone from granite, marble, quartz or sandstone.

The Health & Safety Executive recently reported that a manufacturing firm had been fined thousands of pounds after two workers were struck by slabs of stone. It occurred when three slabs of quartz stone fell on the men while they were working in the company’s workshop. One of the injured men, sustained multiple bone fractures due to the incident.

Slabs are considered to be a serious hazard in the industry. Jefferies Claims may be able to help if you are considering claiming compensation due to employer negligence.

What Exactly Are Slab Injuries?

Slab injuries in stonemasonry occur when a large piece of stone shifts, falls, or tips over, causing you harm. Injuries may range from minor bruises and sprains to life changing conditions like crushed limbs, fractures or head injuries.

Even experienced masons can find themselves in a dangerous situation if proper safety measures are not in place.

Here are some common causes of slab-related accidents:

Improper Lifting Techniques – Stone slabs are heavy. If you’re not using the right lifting equipment or trying to move one manually without support, the risk of injury skyrockets.

Faulty or Inadequate Equipment – Slings, hoists, clamps, and A-frames need to be in top condition. A frayed strap or a weak clamp can lead to disaster.

Poor Slab Storage – Leaning slabs against walls without proper support can lead to them toppling over without warning.

Lack of Training – Inadequate training on how to handle stone slabs can lead to serious injuries

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured by a Slab

If you or a colleague have been hurt due to an accident with a slab, your first priority is to get medical attention. Even if the injury seems minor, you should get checked out. There could be internal bruising or fractures which may not be immediately obvious.

Additionally, it’s important to report the accident to your employer and ensure that there’s a record of the incident. However other evidence you will need to gather includes photos of the scene. Witness statements and any details of faulty equipment or unsafe conditions are also worth obtaining.

Making a Personal Injury Claim

If your injury was due to someone else’s negligence, such as your employer failing to provide proper training or safe working condition, you might be entitled to compensation. Compensation typically covers your medical expenses, lost wages due to time off and even for pain and suffering.

Personal injury claims can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and even the emotional toll of your injury. You will need to show how your employer was negligent and that the breach resulted directly in your injury. Claims need to be made within three years of the accident, although there are some exceptions.

At Jefferies Claims, we only work with lawyers who will assess all aspects of your case and who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Contact Jefferies Claims today at 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an initial no-obligation telephone consultation with a member of our friendly team.