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5 ways to help avoid an accident at work

The most common causes of injury at work

Since the mid-1980s there has been a 58% estimated reduction in non-fatal injuries sustained in the work place. We know this from the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Despite these positive figures, accidents at work still happen. Here are the most common causes of injury in the workplace.

Slips & Trips

These types of accidents usually cause soft tissue injuries or fractured bones. They often occur due to the negligence of colleagues such as spillages or tripping over something that shouldn’t be there. A recent casestudy (found here) explores one such instance. They also happen because a workplace has systems in place that are unsafe, if they even have systems in places at all. According to RIDDOR, 31% of injuries at work are of this variety. If you slipped or tripped then we can help. Click here to learn more.

Lifting or carrying

Lifting or carrying heavy items can cause pulled muscles and strains. Sometimes in a busy work environment employees can overexert themselves which leads to the accident. However, more often than not, the injured employee would have been safer had they been provided with more training. According to RIDDOR, 21% of injuries at work are from lifting or carrying items. If you suffered from such an injury then we can help. Click here to learn more.

Struck by a moving object

Employees that are struck by a moving object can potentially face dire injuries depending on the circumstances. This type of accident can range from being knocked down by a forklift to having something fall on you from scaffolding. According to RIDDOR, 10% of injuries are due to the impact of a moving object.

Falls from a height

Employees that work on scaffolding or up ladders are at particular risk of falling. The impact of such a fall can leave the employee with injuries ranging from soft tissue damage to very serious fractures and even brain injuries. According to RIDDOR, 8% of injuries are caused by this variety of accident. If you suffered from a fall like this we can help. Click here to learn more.

Acts of violence

Thankfully, the most uncommon cause of injury at work is through the violent actions of other employees or members of the public. In many circumstances when the assault was by a colleague, the employer is still liable. There may also be grounds for a criminal injury claim too. According to RIDDOR, 7% of work injuries are a result of violence.



If you had an accident at work, whatever the cause, we can help you claim for the compensation that you deserve. Learn more about our services or contact us for a free, no obligation enquiry.

What the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland says about RIDDOR

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations

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