Common Injuries for Bricklayers

How to Make a Personal Injury Claim For ‘Brickies’ Injured At Work

Bricklayers literally lay the foundations for all our buildings, so common injuries for bricklayers range from high falls, slips and trips to back pain. Due to the nature of their work, they may particularly suffer from musculoskeletal disorders resulting in back pain, knee and shoulder injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Bricklaying is considered one of the most physically demanding jobs where they are exposed to hazards daily. However, if you’re a brickie and you’ve suffered an injury at work through no fault of yours, you may be able to claim compensation.

This is done through a personal injury claim which involves employer negligence in the workplace. Taking prompt and informed action can help provide for you and your family going forward.

At Jefferies Claims, we partner with lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis who can assess whether your case is valid and if so, help you claim compensation.

 

Common Injuries Faced by Bricklayers

From working at height to handling heavy materials, the potential for accidents is significant in the bricklaying industry. Here are some common injuries which may be sustained during a working day:

 Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)

Bricklayers often perform repetitive tasks, such as lifting, bending, and twisting. Over time, these movements can cause serious musculoskeletal problems. This health issue particularly occurs in the back, shoulders, and knees. Common MSDs include:

• Lower back pain
• Shoulder tendonitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Knee injuries

Falls From Height

Working on scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops increases the risk of falling. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height remain one of the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities in construction.

Common fall-related injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Head trauma
• Spinal injuries
• Internal bleeding

Even with safety harnesses and fall protection systems, accidents can occur due to faulty equipment or inadequate training.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Uneven ground, loose cables, wet surfaces, and poor lighting are just a few hazards that can lead to slips and trips. These accidents may seem minor but can cause:

• Fractures
• Sprains
• Bruising
• Concussions

Preventing such injuries involves maintaining clean and organised worksites.

Cuts and Lacerations

Handling bricks, tools, and machinery puts bricklayers at risk of cuts, punctures, and lacerations. There’s the potential for such injuries to become infected or result in long-term nerve damage if not treated promptly.

Crush Injuries

Working with heavy materials, machinery, or in unstable environments can lead to crush injuries. These are generally caused by:

• Falling bricks or debris
• Collapsing walls or scaffolding
• Machinery malfunctions

Exposure To Harmful Substances

Bricklayers may also be exposed to hazardous materials. These may include  cement dust, asbestos, and silica. Prolonged exposure without adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) can lead to:

• Respiratory issues
• Skin conditions (like dermatitis)
• Long-term illnesses such as COPD or silicosis

When Can I Make a Personal Injury Claim?

Employers are legally required to have strict health and safety protocols in place to ensure the health and wellbeing of their staff. This includes factors such as carrying out risk assessments, providing proper training and PPE, as well as maintaining a safe working environment.

If you’ve been injured due to your employer’s negligence or unsafe working conditions, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim.

You generally have three years from the date of the accident, or from the date you became aware of the injury, to start your claim.

 

How to Make a Personal Injury Claim as a ‘Brickie’

Seek Medical Attention

Always seek medical help as soon as possible. This is not only important for your health, but medical records also serve as essential evidence in your claim.

Report the Accident

Let your employer know about your injury as soon as possible. Additionally, ensure the incident is recorded in the company’s accident book. If your workplace lacks an accident book, report the injury via email or in writing and keep a copy.

Gather Evidence

To strengthen your claim, it is important to collect the following:

• Photographs of the accident scene
• Witness statements
• CCTV footage (if available)
• Medical reports
• Records of any costs (e.g., travel, prescriptions, loss of earnings)

Get Legal Advice

It’s advisable to work with a solicitor who specialises in workplace injury claims. Many offer a No Win, No Fee service, which means you only pay if your claim is successful.

An experienced personal injury lawyer will assess your case, as well as help you to collect further evidence. They will negotiate a settlement with the employer’s insurance company.

How Compensation is Calculated

Compensation amounts vary depending on the severity of the injury, the impact on your life, and financial losses. You may receive compensation for:

• General damages (pain and suffering)
• Special damages (loss of income, medical bills, travel expenses)
• Future loss of earnings
• Rehabilitation and care costs

Don’t delay – the sooner you act, the better your chances of a successful outcome. Delays can result in lost evidence and missed deadlines.

 

Preventing Injuries – Tips for Bricklayers

While compensation can aid recovery, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some key safety tips:

• Always wear PPE (gloves, helmets, goggles, etc.)
• Use proper lifting techniques
• Report hazards immediately
• Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue

Next Steps

If you have suffered an injury at work which you believe may have been caused through employer negligence, get in touch with our friendly team.

Jefferies Claims can guide you through the process and advise you in confidence regarding a potential claim. We work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Take the next step, contact our team on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange a telephone consultation – it’s free, confidential and there’s no obligation.