Burn At Work Compensation – Can You Make An Injury Claim?

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You are entitled to claim compensation if you suffer a burn at work in an accident that wasn’t your fault. We work on a no win no fee basis, meaning there’s no financial cost to you if you don’t win your claim.

Table of contents

Key Takeaways:

  • You can claim for burns caused by employer negligence
  • Claims cover various types of burns, including thermal, chemical, and electrical
  • Compensation amounts vary based on burn severity and long-term impact
  • You generally have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim
  • No win no fee agreements mean no financial risk to you

Eligibility for Workplace Burn Injury Claims

Generally, you can make a burn injury claim against your employer if they were negligent in following health and safety rules, resulting in your injury. However, several factors need to be considered to determine your eligibility:

  1. The accident must have occurred due to employer negligence:
    This means that your employer failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the accident. For instance, if you suffered a chemical burn because your employer didn’t provide appropriate protective equipment or failed to properly store hazardous substances, this could be considered negligence. It’s important to note that not all workplace accidents are due to employer negligence – sometimes accidents happen despite all reasonable precautions being taken.
  2. Your employer must have failed in their duty of care:
    Employers have a legal obligation to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees while at work. This duty of care extends to providing a safe working environment, adequate training, and appropriate equipment that isn’t faulty. If your employer has breached this duty, resulting in your burn injury, you may have grounds for a claim. For example, if you weren’t provided with proper training on handling hot equipment or substances, this could be seen as a failure in the employer’s duty of care.
  3. The accident was not primarily your fault:
    While you may still be able to claim if you were partially at fault (known as contributory negligence), your claim is likely to be stronger if the accident was primarily due to factors outside your control. However, if you deliberately ignored safety protocols or were under the influence of drugs or alcohol, this could significantly impact your ability to claim.
  4. The incident occurred within the last three years (with some exceptions):
    In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start legal proceedings. This time limit is known as the limitation period. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as for claimants under 18 or those who lack mental capacity. Additionally, in some cases where the effects of the injury weren’t immediately apparent, the three-year period might start from the ‘date of knowledge’ – when you first became aware of the injury.

Employer Responsibilities

It’s important to understand that employers have a comprehensive set of legal obligations to ensure a safe working environment. These include:

  • Providing a safe working environment: This encompasses everything from ensuring non-slip floors to prevent falls while carrying hot liquids, to maintaining proper ventilation in areas where chemical fumes might be present.
  • Ensuring staff are adequately trained: Proper training is key in preventing burn injuries. This includes training on how to use tools and machinery safely, how to handle hot substances, and what to do in case of an emergency.
  • Maintaining and repairing equipment regularly: Faulty equipment can lead to serious burn injuries. Regular maintenance checks and prompt repairs are essential.
  • Removing faulty equipment from use until repaired: If a piece of equipment is known to be faulty, it should be taken out of service immediately to prevent accidents.
  • Handling hazardous chemicals according to COSHH guidelines: The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) provide specific guidelines on how to handle dangerous substances safely.
  • Providing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): This might include heat-resistant gloves, face shields, or protective clothing, depending on the nature of the work.

If your employer has failed in any of these areas, leading to your burn injury, you may be eligible to make a claim. However, each case is unique, and it’s always best to consult with a specialised personal injury solicitor who can assess the specific details of your situation and advise you on the best course of action.

Why Claim Compensation?

Claiming compensation for a burn injury at work is not just about seeking financial recompense; it’s about ensuring you have the resources to deal with the impact of your injury and holding employers accountable for maintaining safe working environments. Here’s why claiming compensation can be crucial:

  • Provide financial support during your recovery: Burn injuries often require extensive recovery time. Compensation can help cover your living expenses while you’re unable to work, reducing financial stress during your recovery.
  • Cover medical expenses and rehabilitation costs: Burn treatments can be expensive if you go private, especially for severe burns requiring skin grafts or long-term care. Compensation can help cover these costs, including any necessary follow-up treatments or therapies.
  • Compensate for lost earnings if you’re unable to work: If your burn injury prevents you from working, either temporarily or permanently, compensation can help replace your lost income. This can include both immediate lost wages and potential future earnings if your injury affects your long-term career prospects.
  • Pay for any necessary adaptations to your home or lifestyle: Severe burns may require you to make changes to your home or daily routine. Compensation can help cover the costs of these adaptations, such as specialised equipment or home modifications.
  • Provide justice and acknowledgment of your suffering: Beyond the financial aspects, claiming compensation can provide a sense of justice. It acknowledges that you’ve suffered due to someone else’s negligence and can help prevent similar incidents from happening to others in the future.
  • Support ongoing care needs: Some burn injuries may require long-term or even lifelong care. Compensation can help ensure you have the resources to access the care you need over time.
  • Cover additional expenses: Burn injuries can lead to various unforeseen expenses, such as travel costs for medical appointments, special clothing, or skincare products. Compensation can help cover these additional costs.

Remember, claiming compensation is your legal right if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence. It’s not about taking advantage of the system, but about ensuring you have the support and resources you need to recover and move forward after a serious injury.

Types of Burn Injuries You Can Claim For

Burn injuries in the workplace can occur in various ways, and understanding the different types can help you better assess your claim. Claims can be made for a range of workplace burn injuries, each with its own set of challenges and potential long-term effects:

  • Scalding by hot liquid: These burns are common in industries like food service and manufacturing. They can occur from spills of hot water, coffee, or other liquids. Even seemingly minor scalds can cause significant pain and potential scarring.
  • Hot oil burns: Particularly common in the food industry, hot oil burns can be extremely severe due to the high temperatures involved. These burns often result in deep tissue damage and can lead to significant scarring.
  • Chemical burns: These occur when the skin comes into contact with corrosive substances. Chemical burns can be particularly dangerous as the damage may continue even after initial contact if the chemical is not properly neutralised.
  • Steam burns: Often occurring in industrial settings, steam burns can be deceptively severe. The high temperature of steam can cause deep tissue damage quickly, even through clothing.
  • Heat and fire burns: Direct contact with flames or extremely hot surfaces can cause these burns. They’re common in industries involving welding, metalwork, or any processes involving high temperatures.
  • Electrical burns: These can occur from contact with live electrical sources. Electrical burns are particularly dangerous as they can cause internal damage that may not be immediately visible on the skin.
  • Radiation burns: While less common, these can occur in settings where radiation is present, such as in certain medical or research facilities.

Understanding the medical classification of burns is also important when considering a claim:

  • First-degree burns: These affect only the top layer of skin (epidermis). While painful, they usually heal within a week without scarring.
  • Second-degree burns: These damage both the first and second layers of skin (epidermis and dermis). They can be extremely painful and may result in blistering and scarring.
  • Third-degree burns: These are the most severe, damaging all layers of skin and potentially affecting underlying tissues. They often require skin grafts and can result in permanent scarring and disability.

The severity and type of burn will significantly impact the value of your claim and the long-term effects you may experience.

See the comments below this article for the many different types of accident at work that have resulted in burn injuries to claimants.

How Much Can You Claim For a Burn Injury at Work?

The value of a burn injury claim can vary significantly based on several factors. Understanding these can help set realistic expectations:

Compensation for burn injuries typically includes two types of damages, general and special:

General Damages

General damages compensate for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. The amount depends on the severity of the burn, its location, and its impact on your life. The total amount varies from case to case, but there are guidelines issued to solicitors by the courts. A first degree facial burn could have a value of up to £6,000, for example. Whereas a more severe, third degree facial burn could be more than ten times as much.

The table below shows amounts for facial disfigurement, obviously burns and scarring to other, less visible parts of the body can attract lesser amounts.

Severity of injuryCompensation amount
Very severe scarring, with permanent disfigurement and psychological effects£22,625 – £81,400
Less severe scarring, where disfigurement is still substantial with a significant psychological reaction£13,650 – £40,480
Significant scarring which remains visible at conversational distances£6,925 – £25,160
Less significant scarring which remains visible on close inspection£3,000 – £11,500
Trivial scarring where the effect is minor£1,300 – £2,940

Special Damages

Special damages cover financial losses directly resulting from your injury, including:

  • Lost earnings (both current and future)
  • Medical expenses
  • Travel costs for treatment
  • Care costs
  • Any necessary adaptations to your home or lifestyle

The total value of your claim will be the sum of these general and special damages. It’s important to note that every case is unique, and these figures are just guidelines. Your solicitor will be able to give you a more accurate estimate based on the specific details of your case.

How to Successfully Claim for a Burn Injury at Work

If you’ve suffered a burn injury at work, knowing the right steps to take can significantly improve your chances of a successful compensation claim. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health is the priority. Even if the burn seems minor, get it properly assessed and treated. This not only ensures proper care but also creates an official medical record of your injury, which is key to your claim.

2. Report the Incident

Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. Ensure it’s recorded in the company’s accident book. If there isn’t one, or your employer won’t record the incident, send a written account of it to your employer and keep a copy for yourself. Include:

  • Date, time, and location of the accident
  • How the accident occurred
  • Any witnesses present
  • Details of your injury

3. Gather Evidence

Collect as much evidence as you can:

  • Photographs of your injuries and the accident scene
  • Names and contact details of witnesses
  • Any faulty equipment or hazardous materials involved
  • Copies of medical reports and treatments received

4. Keep a Record of Expenses

Document all expenses related to your injury, including:

  • Medical bills and prescription costs
  • Travel expenses for medical appointments
  • Lost wages due to time off work

5. Consult a Specialist Solicitor

Contact us – we have solicitors who specialises in workplace burn injury claims. We offer a free initial consultation where we can:

  • Assess the viability of your claim
  • Explain the claims process
  • Discuss No Win No Fee options

6. Notify Your Union (If Applicable)

If you’re a union member, inform your representative. They may be able to provide additional support or advice.

7. Undergo a Medical Assessment

Your solicitor will arrange an independent medical examination to assess your injuries fully. This report will be crucial evidence in your claim.

8. Let Your Solicitor Handle Communications

Once you’ve instructed a solicitor, they will:

  • Notify your employer and their insurers of your claim
  • Handle all communications and negotiations
  • Gather additional evidence if needed
  • Keep you informed of the claim’s progress

9. Consider Rehabilitation Needs

Discuss any ongoing treatment or rehabilitation needs with your solicitor. These can be included in your claim to ensure you receive the care you need.

10. Be Patient but Proactive

The claims process can take time, especially for more severe burns. Stay in regular contact with your solicitor and provide any additional information promptly when requested.

11. Decide on Settlement Offers

Your solicitor will advise you on the fairness of any settlement offers received. The final decision to accept or reject an offer is always yours.

The Claims Process For Workplace Burn Injuries

At Direct2Compensation, we’re here to guide you through every step of the claims process, ensuring you have the support and expertise needed to secure the compensation you deserve for your burn injury at work. Understanding the process can help you navigate your claim more effectively. Here’s a detailed look at each step:

  1. Initial Consultation:
    The process begins with a free consultation with a specialised solicitor. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the details of your accident, the nature of your burns, and how they’ve affected your life. The solicitor will assess the viability of your claim, explain the legal process, and discuss the no win no fee agreement. This is your opportunity to ask questions and decide if you want to proceed.
  2. Gathering Evidence:
    This step involves collecting all relevant documentation to support your claim. Such evidence forms the foundation of your claim, demonstrating both liability and the extent of your injuries. Your solicitor will help you gather:
    • Medical records detailing your burn injuries and treatments
    • Accident reports from your workplace
    • Witness statements from colleagues who saw the incident
    • Photographs of the accident scene and your injuries
    • Employment records showing lost wages
    • Any correspondence with your employer about the incident
  3. Medical Assessment:
    You’ll undergo an independent medical examination with a burn specialist. This doctor will assess your injuries, review your treatment, and provide a prognosis for your recovery. Their report will be a key piece of evidence, detailing the severity of your burns, any long-term effects, and recommendations for future treatment.
  4. Claim Submission:
    Your solicitor will prepare and submit a formal claim to your employer’s insurance company. This document outlines the circumstances of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the compensation you’re seeking. The insurer then has a set period to respond, either accepting liability or contesting the claim.
  5. Negotiation:
    Once liability is established, your solicitor will negotiate with the insurer to reach a fair settlement. This process involves presenting evidence of your injuries and losses, and may include several rounds of offers and counter-offers. Your solicitor will advise you on the fairness of any offers, but the final decision to accept or reject a settlement is always yours.
  6. Settlement or Court:
    Most burn injury claims are settled out of court through negotiation. However, if an agreement can’t be reached, your case may proceed to court. Even if court proceedings are initiated, negotiations often continue, and many cases settle before the trial date. If your case does go to court, your solicitor will represent you and present your case to a judge.

No Win No Fee Burn Claims: Understanding Your Options

When considering a compensation claim for a burn injury at work, one of the primary concerns for many people is the potential cost of legal representation. This is where No Win No Fee agreements, also known as Conditional Fee Agreements (CFAs), come into play. These agreements can make legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

What is a No Win No Fee Agreement?

A No Win No Fee agreement means that you won’t have to pay any upfront legal costs to pursue your burn injury claim. Here’s how it works:

  1. If your claim is successful: You’ll pay a success fee to your solicitor. This is typically 25% of your compensation award, and deducted from your compensation at the end of the case.
  2. If your claim is unsuccessful: You won’t have to pay any legal fees to your solicitor. This protects you from financial risk when pursuing your claim.

Benefits of No Win No Fee for Burn Claims

Access to Justice: No Win No Fee agreements make it possible for anyone to seek compensation, regardless of their financial situation. This is particularly important for burn victims who may be facing financial hardship due to their injuries.

No Upfront Costs: You don’t need to pay anything to start your claim, removing financial barriers to seeking justice.

Reduced Financial Risk: If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t be left with a large legal bill to pay.

Motivation for Your Solicitor: Since the solicitor only gets paid if you win, they are motivated to work hard on your case and secure the best possible outcome.

Peace of Mind: You can focus on your recovery without worrying about ongoing legal costs.

After the Event (ATE) Insurance

As part of a No Win No Fee agreement, your solicitor may recommend taking out an After the Event (ATE) insurance policy. This protects you from having to pay the other side’s costs if your claim is unsuccessful. The premium for this insurance is typically only payable if you win your case.

However, it’s important to note that at Direct2Compensation, we feel ATE to be an unnecessary burden on claimants and where possible we will not recommend taking it out.

Making a Decision

Before agreeing to a No Win No Fee arrangement, make sure you:

  1. Understand the terms of the agreement, including the success fee percentage
  2. Are clear about any potential additional costs
  3. Know what happens if you want to switch solicitors or withdraw from the claim

At Direct2Compensation, we believe that No Win No Fee agreements provide an essential route to justice for burn injury victims. We’re committed to explaining these agreements clearly and ensuring you’re comfortable with the terms before proceeding with your claim.

Remember, a burn injury can have significant physical, emotional, and financial impacts. A No Win No Fee agreement allows you to seek the compensation you deserve without adding financial stress during your recovery period.

How We Can Help You Make a Successful Claim

At Direct2Compensation, we specialise in workplace injury claims, including burn injuries. Our expertise and dedication can significantly improve your chances of a successful claim:

  • Assess the viability of your claim: We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and advise you on the best course of action.
  • Help you understand your legal rights: We’ll explain the claims process in clear, jargon-free language, ensuring you understand your rights and options at every stage.
  • Ensure your accident is properly recorded: We’ll guide you on how to report your accident correctly and gather the necessary evidence to support your claim.
  • Arrange a free medical assessment: We’ll organise an independent medical examination to provide a comprehensive report on your injuries.
  • Connect you with experienced burn injury solicitors: We work with a network of specialised solicitors who have extensive experience in burn injury claims.
  • Guide you through the claims process: From initial consultation to final settlement, we’ll be with you every step of the way, providing support and guidance.

Our no win no fee approach means you can pursue your claim without financial risk. If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay any legal fees. Remember, you have a legal right to claim compensation for workplace injuries that weren’t your fault. Don’t let concerns about cost or complexity deter you from seeking the compensation you deserve.

If you have suffered a burn injury at work and want to know if you can make a claim for compensation, contact us today. You can start your claim online or , and one of our expert team will be in touch to offer help. Alternatively, call us on 01225 430285.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Comments & Questions

Read on for questions and advice about claiming, plus burn injury claim examples...

2 years ago I was involved in an accident which resulted into blistering burns on my toes and onto my foot, this is because after repeated asking for safety shoes to be provided I was simply told there was no money left in the budget for uniform. Because of this during my daily tasks within a kitchen environment I had to clean the floor I.e pour water out of a boiler on the floor then clean it. However upon doing so the water splashed back and went over the top of my shoes which were not safety shoes provided by the company. After being sent home for my injuries and have 1-2 days off work I submitted a accident report form. Subsequently the manager the purchased me safety shoes after my accident report had been submitted. I do have evidence of the invoice for the date of which they were purchased, however the manager at the time fraudulently filled the date in wrong on the sheet (apparently he bought them for me in 1970…) I also have pictures of the burns to my feet. Although effectively I was responsible for using boiling water on the floor it was one of my job roles to do so, but I would like to claim on the basis of manager negligence as he had not provided me the correct footwear.

Ian Morris

This is certainly a claim that can be considered and looked in to further. The issue you cite regarding the date of the purchase of the safety shoes should not be an issue.

We would like to know more about this so it would be wise for you to make further contact and discuss this possible claim with us. Please call us on 01225430285 or use the ‘start a claim’ page of our website to make an online enquiry.

Reply

My line manager purchased a rubber sleeve to fit over the pan handle when cooking, this slipped off and the contents of the pan burnt my foot. The company was not aware that the line manager had brought the rubber sleeve into the workplace, all staff at the site knew that the rubber sleeve could slip and slide so who is responsible ?

Ian Morris

The line manager has clearly made a decision off their own bat and apparently caused a risk of injury to you. In this case, the employer carries an overall responsibility and any claim would be made against them. This is something we would be happy to help you pursue. Please use the ‘start a claim’ page of our website to make further contact with us and we’ll look in to this matter for you.

Reply

What if manager train you the wrong way and you get hurt? Because she told me to pick up the Fried Chicken Basket, she said it was hot, got third-degree Burns, don’t know what to do next – workers compensation accepted my claim.

Ian Morris

If you are injured in an accident at work because you have been given training that is incorrect and caused you to suffer injury, you can pursue a claim for compensation against the employer.

Reply

Hi I had an accident at work where I sustained burns and was off work for a while. Problem is the business is closing down now, can I still pursue a claim?

Ian Morris

Yes, you can still pursue a claim and even if the business is already closed the possibility of claiming remains open to you. The employer would have insurance in place that would cover the period of time where you worked for the employer. Ideally, you should start your claim at the earliest opportunity.

Reply

Hi, I have recently fallen at work up some steps with a bucket of instant boiling water which resulted in me suffering 1st degree burns on my left and right hands and left wrist. I’ve been to hospital 3 times to have it dressed and had to have a course of antibiotics and a tetanus injection. I returned to work 4 days later for my night shift as I could not afford time off work, but after doing a shift my hand became worse and more sore and so I have decided to stay off work. Obviously this is going to have an effect on me financially and I’ve been told I can not claim due to my own fault of carrying a shallow bucket with hot water up some steps rather than using a mob bucket which is deeper, I’m not sure what to believe and I could do with some advice.

Ian Morris

Did your employer provide you with training and guidance with regards to the handling of hot water? Were you instructed or required by a supervisor to move the hot water?

You could have a claim here and although there maybe some contributory negligence with regards to the handling of the water in the shallow bucket, you could still succeed. What was it that caused you to fall on the steps?

Reply

I burnt myself at work (2nd degree burn.) The manager on shift’s first aid certificate ran out so he didn’t record it in the accident book.
The next day a more senior manager redressed my burn and we had an informal discussion about what duties I could still carry out as I work in a kitchen so was wary of anything too hot/wet or dirty.
Another manager asked me to do one of the jobs that I had been told not to do, and we argued about it.
I am now suspended and facing dismissal for gross insubordination. This doesn’t seem right considering I only refused to save myself further Injury/infection.
What are my rights here?

Ian Morris

Under UK law it will depend on what your Doctor has stated as being appropriate work or anything you must avoid. Essentially, if you have been deemed first to work, your employer is able to instruct you to perform any duty that you are able to do – but under UK law, an employer cannot cause you to worsen an injury or risk your health and you have rights to prevent this.

Reply

Can i claim if i burned my foot with the boiled water from the steamer at work? I’ve been told by the supervisor to go and drain the excess in the toilet as it was too much water in it and that’s where the incident happened.

Ian Morris

If the incident has been recorded in the employers accident book and medical treatment has been obtained for the burn, then yes, you could make a claim.

If you would like to discuss this further, please call us on 01225430285.

Reply

Hi I was injured at work I burned myself with hot liquid after taking a tray of hot food out of the oven that slipped of a shelf and burnt my arm. I reported it in the accident book and gave myself first aid on the spot. I didn’t take time off work or see a Doctor but I now have scars.

I should add that we have also reported problems with the work place that haven’t been made right for months so it seems like my employer who is the local council are being negligent towards our health and safety.

Ian Morris

We would like to speak to you regarding your injury at work as there could well be a claim to pursue here. Although you have not attended the GP, the accident book report will provide useful evidence to support any claim that could be made.

We need to know more about the accident that lead to your burn injury so that we can ascertain whether or not you have a valid claim, so we would recommend further contact with us.

Reply

I got burnt whilst working as an agency chef, from my chin to my groin 20% of my body. I slipped on grease on the kItchen floor in the clean up area. I was carrying 10 litres of boiling water. I did not have safety shoes on it the manager was aware of this as I was waiting to get paid to get mine. I am off work I am in pain and I am a mess emotionally and physically. Whilst waiting for paramedics they got me to sign the accident book stating it was my fault as well, I feel I was in shock at this time.

Ian Morris

We would like to discuss this further with you and believe that it is worthwhile pursuing a claim against your employer in this matter.

Reply

I was scalded in the face and suffered whiplash when a tap at work exploded boiling in my face, this tap had no caution hot water signs above it and was never or very rarely checked for faults, could my employer be at fault here?

Ian Morris

Our initial view is that you have a valid claim for workplace injury compensation here and we would be happy to pursue this further for you. If the employer cannot demonstrate that they have an adequate maintenance and inspection regime in place regarding the plumbing within the workplace, they could struggle to defend any claim.

Reply

I was severely burned with boiled kettle water in a work accident almost 3 years ago, I have tried to claim three times and each time they have closed my file due to lack of witness. My final claim has just been closed also because they have found my witness but she has said that she does not want to be involved in any way. I would like justice because this has caused me to be depressed and has made me loose all confidence, it has caused me visible damage for life up my leg and I’ve had to go through surgeries of skin grafting etc.. please advice me, what can I do?

Ian Morris

What an awful situation, burn injuries, including scalding are extremely painful and distressing injuries and we can appreciate why you want justice.

The situation you describe is a clear indication as to why it is so important that a claim is supported by evidence if the claimant is to have a good prospect of succeeding. If your claim has failed on 3 occasions, it is extremely unlikely that anyone is going to be able to succeed for you unless new and substantial supportive evidence becomes available. In your case, this sounds unlikely.

Of course, if your witness were willing to provide a supportive statement and assist you in the claims process that would give you a far better chance of winning your claim. Is there any way you can speak with the potential witness to see if you can get them on board? The other issue you have is the pressing proximity of your 3-year claim limitation. Any action MUST be taken before that 3-year period expires.

Reply

Hi, i recently got a facial burn at work whilst making gravy. I was covering the chef while they were on a break and we were really busy and short staffed.

We currently have no manager so i have been trying to cover both my own role as well as the manager role.

I was taken to a&e because we had no burn gel on site. I was treated for 2nd degree burns to my face. I was phoned by my boss to return to work the next day as they were struggling without me. I felt pressured to go in even though medical advice told me not to.

When i have looked at my training records when filling in the incident form at work i noticed i have not been signed off for anything.

My boss is coming tomorrow to look at it. What would your advice be?

I am worried because we have no manager i’m not sure what i should do.

Ian Morris

If you have not been given the right training to work in the kitchen, the cause of your injury is a result of employer negligence and as such, you could well have a valid claim for accident at work compensation.

Regarding returning to work, you really MUST follow medical advice and not allow your concerns about your employer to cloud your judgement as to when to return to work. When speaking with your employer, you needn’t make any mention of any potential action you could take as a result of the injury and should simply talk about the lack of sufficient staff and any lack of training provision.

We would be happy to further investigate a possible claim for you as a result of this accident at work. If you would like to take this further, please contact us. We’ll then present a claim enquiry to our specialist burn injury at work Solicitors who can then discuss your claim with you in detail.

Reply

I’ve got injured at work. I was wearing the correct PPE due to that we didn’t have fire Jacket and the employer said they still on order and the face shield got broken while I was busy trying to light a boiler. So as a result of my injury. I’ve got burnt on my face and both arms. Is it my fault or employers fault?

Ian Morris

If the employer has provided you with all of the relevant personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure that you are fully trained and qualified to perform your duties, it will be hard to succeed with a claim against them.

However, if the employer has in any way been negligent and failed to provide the right training or PPE equipment, then you could succeed with a claim.

It sounds as though you didn’t have the right fire jacket on and if so, you could well be able to claim for the burns to your arms. However, if you damaged the face shield through your own ‘negligence’ there could be an element of contributory negligence that would have to be accepted for the burn to your face.

It would be useful for us to speak with you so that we can get a better understanding of the incident and then give you a more ‘qualified’ view of whether or not you can make a claim.

Reply

I have an injury after an incident at work. I got burned to the hands due to faulty electrics. I think that the insurers have denied liability and now await my medical records. I am not sure if my claim is strong enough. I went to A&E for medical help and was given good treatment for my injuries with dressings and medicines. Do you think I can get any compensation and win my claim?

Ian Morris

If the electrics at your work were faulty or live circuits were exposed so that you were caused to come in to contact with a live 240 volt circuit, your employer has been negligent and as such, our initial view of this is that you would have a valid claim for accident at work compensation.

In order for us to give a more definitive opinion on the strength of any possible claim, it would help us greatly if you could explain how you came in to contact with the live electricity and how you came to to suffer the burns to your hands.

Aside from this, you must ensure that the details of your accident have been properly reported and recorded with your employer. You may also wish to consider whether or not the details of your accident at work require a RIDDOR report.

Reply

Good evening,
5 weeks ago I had an accident at work. I work in a kitchen and I was doing the washing up like every afternoon. Next to the sink sits a fryer on top of a counter. Somehow the base of the fryer caught in one of my colleagues back pocket and when he moved the hot oil fell on me. I burned my right arm, side, buttock and thigh down to my knee.
I got some more superficial burns and some deeper ones, one of which is still healing.

Can you give me some good advice?
Thanks a lot.

Ian Morris

It is understandable that you didn’t want to have to go down the route of claiming compensation from your employer for the injuries you have sustained. No worker wants to have to take action against an employer.

However, given what you have said, I think you have both a viable and more importantly a very just claim for compensation. I appreciate that you may have concerns about making a claim and how the whole process works. I think it would be a good idea for us to have a chat on the telephone so that I can give you a proper opinion and then answer any queries or worries you may have.

Reply

Hi i had an accident at work a few weeks ago where i burned my arm in a 100° alkalyne decarbonizer that i was not trained or signed off on, and my employer wrote out a back to work form. He said if i claim he will sack me on the spot , are there any way that a back to work form states that the accident was my fault ? I have now made a claim and lost my job.

Ian Morris

Robert

Thank you for taking the time to inform us of your situation and ask for some advice about your recent accident at work. It certainly sounds like your former employer has behaved in an underhanded manner and failed to offer you any kind of fairness or adequate support. Furthermore, if they have sacked you for making a claim then that is illegal. I am pleased that you have already started a claim – it sounds like you have a very strong claim (which is probably why your former employer has treated you so badly).

I would not really be able to comment on the back to work form regarding who is at fault as I would need to see the form to offer any sensible advice. However, the form should be available to you to view and therefore you should seek a copy of the form at the earliest opportunity and check it to ensure that it is an honest representation of what happened, what was said and that you agree with the contents.

Robert

Hi ian, thanks for your reply, I got a phone call off my boss saying i signed a waiver stating its my fault, but my boss wrote the whole thing – he said he would sack me if i didn’t sign it, he didn’t let me have a look at it either.

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