Common Injuries Affecting Steel Erectors

Here Are The Hazards and How To Claim For Injury

Steel erectors play a vital role in the construction industry, but the nature of their work is hazardous with various common injuries affecting steel erectors. While employers are legally bound to provide safe working conditions, steel erectors face numerous workplace hazards. This due to the inherent risk associated to their daily tasks.

These may include potential falls and crush injuries to noise exposure and vibration. The type of work carried out by steel erectors includes assembling the structural framework for buildings, bridges and industrial facilities.

So, if you’ve been injured on the job due to poor safety practices or negligence, you may be considering pursuing compensation. It’s worthwhile noting that personal injury claims have to be filed within a three year period of the accident, or from when you first became aware of the injury.

Jefferies Claims works with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and can advise on whether you have a potential claim.

The Top 7 Hazards Faced by Steel Erectors

1. Working at Height

Working at height is probably the most serious risk of injury for steel erectors. Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or steel frameworks can result in injuries which may include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Multiple fractures

Employers are required by law to provide proper fall protection equipment and ensure safety procedures are in place. Failure to do so is a serious breach of health and safety regulations.

2. Falling Objects

Steel erectors often work in multi-level environments. Tools, bolts, or metal beams can fall from above and strike workers. This may happen if materials are not properly secured. Head and facial injuries are common in such incidents.

3. Manual Handling Injuries

Steelwork often involves lifting and positioning heavy metal components. Poor manual handling techniques or lack of lifting equipment can result in:

• Back injuries
• Hernias
• Muscle strains

Employers must provide training and mechanical aids to lessen the hazard of manual handling injuries.

4. Crush Injuries

Crush injuries can take place when steel erectors are caught between heavy components, machinery, or vehicles. These injuries can be severe and may result in permanent disability or amputation.

5. Exposure to Noise and Vibration

Steel erection often involves the use of tools like grinders, drills, and welding equipment, which generate high noise levels and hand-arm vibration. Without proper protective equipment, prolonged exposure can lead to:

• Noise-induced hearing loss
• Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)

6. Slips, Trips and Falls

Uneven surfaces, slippery steel beams, poor lighting, and cluttered work areas contribute to slip and trip risks. These types of accidents may typically cause sprains, fractures, and head injuries.

7. Electrical Hazards

Contact with live electrical cables or power tools can lead to electrocution, burns, or cardiac arrest. Employers should be aware that electrical safety training and equipment maintenance are essential to mitigate this risk.

Employer Responsibilities and Negligence

Employers are legally obligated to ensure the safety and welfare of their employees. For those in the steel erector industry, this includes:

• Conducting risk assessments
• Providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Ensuring equipment is properly maintained
• Offering adequate training and supervision
• Enforcing safety protocols on-site

If an employer fails to uphold these responsibilities and a worker is injured as a result, the employer may be considered negligent.  However, the injury sustained in the accident has to be directly linked to the negligence.

Common Injuries Affecting Steel Erectors

Here are some of the common injuries steel erectors sustain which highlights the importance of safety and compensation. These generally include:

• Fractures and broken bones from falls or being struck by objects
• Head and brain injuries from impact or falling from heights
• Spinal injuries leading to paralysis or long-term mobility issues
• Burns from welding equipment or electrical faults
• Lacerations and puncture wounds from sharp materials
• Crush injuries and amputations from machinery or falling materials

How To File a Personal Injury Claim for Compensation

If you’ve been injured as a steel erector due to employer negligence, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim regarding an injury in the workplace. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical help right away. While your health is your priority, medical records will also serve as crucial evidence in your claim.

2. Report the Incident

Notify your employer and ensure the incident is recorded in the accident book. If your workplace does not have one, make a written report and keep a copy.

3. Gather Evidence

Collect as much evidence as possible to strengthen your claim, including:

• Photos of the accident scene
• Witness statements
• Medical records
• Details of safety failures
• PPE or equipment involved in the incident

Time Limits

You generally have three years from the date of the accident, or the date of knowledge of injury (when you became aware of the injury) to file a personal injury claim. There are exceptions for minors and individuals lacking mental capacity.

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

The amount of compensation varies depending on:

• The severity of your injury
• Long-term effects on your life and employment
• Medical expenses and future care needs
• Lost income and potential loss of future earnings

Typically, you can claim for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost earnings, travel costs related to the injury, as well as rehabilitation. Minor injuries might result in a few thousand pounds, while severe, life-changing injuries can lead to compensation in the hundreds of thousands or more.

Tips for Strengthening Your Personal Injury Claim

To increase the chances of a successful outcome, consider the following:

• Keep notes or a diary of your symptoms and recovery
• Follow all medical advice and attend follow-up appointments
• Avoid posting details of your injury or case on social media
• Maintain all receipts related to medical treatment and expenses

File Your Personal Injury Claim

If you have been injured at work due to employer negligence, you are well within your rights to claim for compensation. With the right support and evidence, you can file a personal injury claim which helps you to recover your health and get your life back on track.

It’s crucial to seek legal advice to have your potential claim assessed by expert lawyers. Workplace injury claims, especially those involving machinery, can be complex. Your lawyer will hep you to gather evidence and negotiate the best compensation settlement for you.

We partner with lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we can guide you through making a claim. A ‘No Win, No Fee’ agreement means you will not have to pay fees unless you win your case.

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.