New data has also revealed that injury claims in the UK have risen 41 per cent over the last five years. 
Research into injury and accident claims submitted to Simply Business has uncovered some interesting facts. The insurance company, which serves over 400,000 businesses and landlords, has found from their 2015-2016 claims data for accidents at work in the UK that accidents have risen a staggering 41 per cent over the past five years.
The rise indicates that companies are not doing enough to ensure accidents in the workplace are avoided, to the detriment of the individuals, but also the businesses. According to Health and Safety Executive (the national independent watchdog for work-related health), in total, an estimated 4.5 million working days were lost due to self-reported workplace injuries for 2015-2016, on average 7.2 days per case.
While HSE figures do show that accidents in the workplace have fallen since 2000/2001, the fall in recent years has flatlined, suggesting that more needs to be done to continue improvements for workers’ safety.
Accidents at work more likely in the North
Interestingly, in the Simply Business figures, Liverpool topped the list for work-related injuries amongst ten of the UK’s largest cities. Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham and Bradford made up the rest of the top five.
On the face of it, this suggests individuals are far more likely to have an accident whilst working for a northern business than their southern counterparts.
What is a “work-related injury”?
According to HSE, the fact that an accident occurs at work premises does not necessarily mean it is deemed a “work-related” injury. An accident is “work-related” only when the work activity itself contributed to the accident.
This can include taking into account the way the work was carried out, whether any work machinery was used, and the condition of the site or premises where the accident happened. With this in mind, it is not surprising that tree-felling, roof tiling and scaffolding are the amongst the most accident-prone trades in the UK. However, accidents can happen anywhere and can have serious consequences for workers and their families.
How can Percy Hughes & Roberts help?
At Percy Hughes & Roberts, our team understand going through a work-place injury can be a stressful and traumatic time. Many people are often apprehensive about possibly bringing a claim against their employer. However, our personal injury team is on-hand to guide you through any potential claim you may have.
Our personal injury team are all fully qualified solicitors with a wealth of experience to ensure you get fully compensated for your injuries and financial losses. You will have direct contact with your own personal solicitor who will regularly update you on the status of your case.
If you would like to contact one of the team, get in touch with our expert accidents at work solicitors today by calling 0151 666 9090 or, alternatively, fill out our “Quick Enquiry” form and one of our advisors will get back to you right away.
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