Factory Accident Claims

Factories can be very dangerous places. Consequently, health and safety systems must be closely followed and adhered to by employers in order to minimise those dangers. Many dangers can lead to factory accident claims.

The variety of different machinery, the size and mass of the premises and the number of people who often work in factories all increase the possibility of having a factory accident. Factory accidents can often result in life-changing injuries. If you have been involved in a factory accident that was not your fault, you could have a valid workplace compensation claim. A personal injury claim must be made within a strict 3-year time limit. We recommend that you contact us as soon as possible.

Factory Accident Claims Types

There are certain types of factory accidents that occur more regularly than others, including:

• Manual handling accidents can happen if your employer has not provided manual handling training. In some cases, it may also be necessary to supply specialised lifting equipment in order to help you do your job efficiently and safely
• Machinery accidents can occur if machinery breaks or isn’t maintained properly. All machinery, especially moving machinery, should be guarded so that it is not possible for someone to fall into it and sustain an injury
• Slipping and falling accidents can happen in any environment including in factories. Because a variety of different chemicals and liquids are often used in factories, there can be the risk of these spilling on the floor. There should be a cleaning system in place which should be followed and inspected at regular intervals
• Forklift truck accidents are also common. If you are operating a forklift truck (FLT) you will need to have an FLT licence organised by your employer. If you have not been provided with a licence and have been involved in a forklift truck accident, you might be able to make a personal injury claim. The area where the FLT is being used should also be clearly marked out so that it is apparent where the vehicle is permitted on the premises
• Falling objects can also cause accidents in factories. Often, stock is kept on high shelves. If objects have not been stacked correctly, they could fall on top of someone and cause a serious injury.

Occupational illness

As well as injuries caused by accidents, occupational diseases can be acquired in a factory. The type of occupational illness you may contract will depend on the type of chemicals or materials you are working with. Different chemicals and textiles can cause respiratory and skin conditions. For instance, if your work is very repetitive, you may suffer from Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). There are also many kinds of asbestos-related illnesses, such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, which can occur following exposure to asbestos, The onset of these conditions can often be 30 or 40 years following original exposure.

Factory Accident Injuries

Factory accidents have the potential to cause very serious injuries. There are a large variety of factory injuries, however below are some of the more common kinds:

• Amputations can be caused if you have become entangled or trapped in moving machinery within a factory
• Spinal injuries can happen if you have suffered a fall from height or a slip
• Burns and lacerations can also happen if you come into contact with harmful chemicals and substances
• Back injuries can be sustained in accidents caused by lifting objects
• Industrial deafness can develop following exposure to loud noises in a factory for a long period of time, without the correct ear protection
• Electric shock injuries happen if there has been an electronic item which has not been maintained correctly and has become faulty

Your Employer’s Responsibility To Prevent Factory Accidents

As mentioned earlier, there are many different ways in which your employer help prevent accidents in the factory workplace. Below are some of those responsibilities:

• Employers must supply Personal Protective clothing and equipment (PPE) if their staff work with or alongside potentially dangerous chemicals/substances or materials
• If there are known hazards anywhere in the workplace, your employer should put up signs to warn of these and reduce the likelihood of accidents
• Risk assessments must be performed so that all dangers are considered. New equipment should also undergo risk assessments before being used
• Training – emergency drills and a range of other courses should be undertaken before an employee starts work. The nature of the training will depend on the nature of the job role. Some of this training will need refreshing at different intervals
• Machinery maintenance is an important part of factory safety. Any wear and tear on equipment needs to be inspected – equipment should be repaired or replaced if necessary.

I’ve Had A Factory Accident – What Should I Do Next?

First of all, it is advisable to speak to your GP. Tell them how your accident happened and about the work you do e.g. if it involves working with dangerous substances or if there are repetitive tasks that you perform.

Claiming Compensation For A Factory Accident

You may have reservations about making a personal injury claim against your employer, particularly if you have worked there for a long time and formed good relations. Remember that your employer will have insurance that covers accidents at work. If you are successful in your case, their insurance policy will fund your settlement.

AMOUNT OF COMPENSATION

All personal injury cases are unique and so the amount of compensation that is awarded in each case is also unique. The amount of compensation that is awarded is determined by looking at two distinct factors – general damages and special damages.

GENERAL DAMAGES

The pain and suffering that your injuries have caused is the main factor that is used to determine how much compensation you are owed.

SPECIAL DAMAGES

However, compensation also takes into account any financial losses that you might have suffered as a result of your injuries, such as a loss of earnings due to being unable to return to work.

How Will Jefferies Help Me With My Factory Accident Claim?

To learn more about how to begin a factory accident compensation claim, please get in touch.on 0333 358 3034 or complete an online claim form.

Where next? Read:

Common Factory Accidents and How to Avoid Them

The 4 Steps To Take After a Factory Accident

3 Ways To Prevent Shelving Accidents