The Top Ten Hazards If You Work In A Market

What To Do If You’re Injured and How To Claim Compensation

Working in a bustling market can be lively and rewarding but it’s not without its risks, so here are the top ten hazards if you work in a market. Whether you’re setting up a stall at a local farmers’ market or selling goods in a buzzing city centre, market workers face a variety of occupational hazards every day.

If you’re injured while working in a market, it’s important to know what to do next and how to claim compensation. It may just make a significant difference in your recovery and the road ahead.

If you enjoy a fast-paced and fulfilling environment, no doubt you enjoy your working day – even though it may mean being up with the birds. However, potential injury risks can range from slipping on a wet path or hurting your back while lifting goods. Furthermore, you may be able to claim compensation if the injury was not your fault.

If you or a loved one have been injured while working in a market, contact Jefferies Claims about a personal injury claim for compensation.

Top Ten Hazards To Watch Out For

1 Slips, Trips, and Falls

Markets often involve early starts and setting up – often with unpredictable weather conditions. Wet or uneven surfaces are a common cause of injuries. Electrical cables, boxes, and loose mats can all lead to painful falls.

Preventative tip: Always secure your area, use proper cable covers, and wear non-slip footwear.

If you’re injured: Take photos of the scene, note the conditions, and seek medical attention immediately. This evidence is vital for a personal injury claim.

2 Manual Handling Injuries

Lifting, carrying, and loading heavy boxes or stock can cause back strains, hernias, or muscle injuries. This may particularly occur if you’re doing it repetitively or without proper equipment.

Preventative tip: Use trolleys or dollies where possible and follow proper lifting techniques.

Injury advice: Report the injury to your employer or market manager and keep a record of your symptoms and any medical appointments.

3 Cuts and Lacerations

Whether from box cutters, broken glass, or sharp edges on products, cuts are a frequent risk in market settings.

Preventative tip: Wear protective gloves and keep your tools in good condition.

After an injury: Clean the wound and seek medical treatment. Document what caused the injury to support a personal injury claim if needed.

4 Fire Hazards

Food stalls in markets tend to use cooking equipment, gas canisters, or electrical generators. So this heightens the risk for fires or burns.

Safety tip: Ensure all equipment is tested and stored safely. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

If injured: Report the incident, get medical help, and gather witness statements or CCTV evidence.

5 Vehicle Accidents

Many market workers are exposed to traffic hazards when loading, unloading, or parking. So, working near moving vehicles increases the risk of accidents.

Preventative tip: Wear high-visibility clothing and make sure to place cones or signage to mark your area.

Injury response: Take down vehicle registration details, take photos, and speak with witnesses.

6 Weather-Related Injuries

The UK’s unpredictable weather can create icy paths, cause tents to collapse due to high wind, or lead to heat exhaustion.

Preventative tip: Secure stalls properly and dress appropriately for the conditions. Hydration is essential in warm weather.

After an incident: If your injury was made worse by a lack of market safety measures during bad weather, you may be able to make a personal injury claim.

7 Electrical Hazards

Faulty wiring or overloading plug sockets can lead to electrocution or fires. This is a risk which may especially happen in older market settings.

Safety advice: Always use certified electricians for setup and check your equipment regularly.

If you’re hurt: Seek immediate medical attention and notify the market authorities. Evidence of faulty equipment is crucial for any claim.

8 Anti-Social Behaviour

Unfortunately, thefts, disputes with customers, or confrontations with intoxicated individuals may escalate into physical harm.

Preventative tip: Install CCTV at your stall, and report suspicious activity to market security.

If assaulted: Report the incident to police and seek medical help. Victim support services may also help you.

9 Exposure to Harmful Substances

Some market workers handle cleaning chemicals, fumes from cooking, or waste that can cause respiratory issues or skin irritations.

Preventative tip: Always use personal protective equipment (PPE) and work in well-ventilated spaces.

Post-exposure action: Visit a GP or hospital and request tests if symptoms develop.

10 Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)

Tasks like repetitive lifting, or assembling items may cause long-term joint or nerve issues.

Prevention: Rotate tasks, take regular breaks, and stretch throughout the day.

Claiming for RSI: Keep detailed records and medical documentation to support a long-term personal injury claim.

 

What To Do If You’re Injured at Work in a Market

Seek medical attention – This should be your priority. Even minor injuries can become serious without treatment.

Report the injury – Notify your supervisor or the market organiser as soon as possible.

Document everything – Take photos, collect witness details, and keep all records of expenses and medical visits.

 

How and When Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim?

If you’ve suffered a workplace injury that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation. This typically covers:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Travel costs
• Long-term rehabilitation
• Pain and suffering

While it’s best to act as soon as possible, you generally have three years in which to start a claim. This applies from the date of the accident or from when you realised your injury was work-related. It is easier to gather evidence while the incident is still fresh.

 

Who Is Responsible?

Responsibility may lie with:

• The market organiser
• Your employer (if you’re employed)
• A third party (e.g., equipment suppliers or other stallholders)

A solicitor specialising in workplace or claims can help you identify who may be liable.

 

What To Do Next

It is important to consult with a personal injury lawyer who can guide you through gathering evidence and negotiating a claim. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can assess if your claim is valid.

To discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact our friendly team at Jefferies Claims on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation.