Injury Awareness Week: Promoting workplace safety and legal advocacy
Injury Awareness Week, hosted by the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) from 24-28 June, focuses this year on workplace injuries and the importance of safety protocols. The initiative highlights the significant impact of negligence on workers and their families and advocates for better safety measures.
This summer also marks 50 years since the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 was implemented. This Act set out many responsibilities including those of employers towards their staff. Since then, the number of deaths and injuries in the workplace has reduced, however they continue to occur.
As specialists in serious and complex personal injury cases, including those arising from workplace incidents, Bolt Burdon Kemp is committed to supporting APIL’s vital campaign.
The impact of workplace injuries
In 2023, 560,000 people suffered injuries at work, according to the HSE’s Labour Force Survey, with only 5% claiming for their injuries.
Workplace injuries are more than mere statistics; they profoundly affect the lives of individuals. These incidents range from severe construction site incidents to chronic conditions like repetitive strain injuries in office settings. The goal of Injury Awareness Week is to differentiate between unavoidable incidents and those caused by negligence, emphasising that many injuries are preventable.
Employers who neglect safety measures or fail to provide proper training foster a culture of negligence, leading to potentially devastating outcomes.
Understanding the common causes of workplace incidents is the first step towards prevention. Some prevalent causes include:
- Slips, trips, and falls: Often resulting from wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting.
- Manual handling: Injuries from lifting, carrying, or moving heavy objects without proper equipment or technique.
- Machinery incidents: Incidents involving faulty equipment or lack of adequate training.
- Exposure to hazardous substances: Health issues arising from contact with chemicals, asbestos, or other harmful materials.
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs): Caused by repetitive tasks without sufficient breaks or ergonomic support.
Employers have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. This includes conducting regular risk assessments, providing appropriate training, and maintaining safe working conditions. Implementing these measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of injuries and create a safer work environment.
How Bolt Burdon Kemp can help
Despite best efforts, people are unfortunately still injured at work. When they are, those affected workers must have access to legal support. Bolt Burdon Kemp is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of personal injury claims, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. We assist with gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, and representing clients in court if necessary.
Beyond individual cases, we also advocate for broader changes to improve workplace safety standards. This includes pushing for stricter regulations, better enforcement of existing laws, and increased awareness about workers’ rights. By doing so, we aim to contribute to a safer and more just working environment for everyone.
APIL’s Injury Awareness Week is a vital initiative that highlights the importance of safety in the workplace. It is a critical reminder of the far-reaching impact of negligence-related injuries. At Bolt Burdon Kemp we are committed to supporting those affected by workplace injuries and advocating for stronger protective measures.
Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s use this week to make meaningful strides towards safer workplaces for all.
