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Office environments are often viewed as low risk. There are no heavy machines or obvious industrial dangers. Yet every year, people are injured in office settings across Middlesbrough, Redcar and the wider Teesside area.

When an accident happens in an office, it can be tempting to dismiss it as “just one of those things”. In reality, many incidents are preventable. If your employer has failed to take reasonable steps to keep you safe, you may be entitled to bring a claim for compensation.

Accidents in office workplaces are more common than you think

Office accidents rarely make headlines but they are far from unusual. Everyday working environments can present risks that build up over time or arise from simple oversights.

Common examples of office accidents include:

• Slips on wet floors or recently cleaned surfaces.
• Trips caused by loose carpet, uneven flooring, trailing cables or clutter.
• Falls on staircases or in poorly lit corridors.
• Manual handling injuries.
• Injuries from unstable or defective office furniture.
• Burns or scalds from communal break room or kitchen.
• Chemical burns when employers fail to adhere to COSHH Regulations.
• Electrocution from defective power outlets or equipment.

Your employer’s legal duty of care

Employers in England and Wales owe a clear duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their staff under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

In practical terms, this means they must take reasonable steps to:

• Carry out suitable and sufficient risk assessments
• Maintain the premises in a safe condition
• Provide safe equipment and appropriate training

Where an employer fails in these responsibilities and that failure leads to injury, they can be held legally accountable.

You can learn more at: Health & Safety Claims: When things go wrong in Middlesbrough and Teesside workplaces.

Common injuries caused by accidents in the office

Although office environments are generally less hazardous than industrial workplaces, the injuries sustained can still be significant.

Office workplace claims can involve a range of injuries, from fractures and soft tissue damage following a fall, to back injuries linked to lifting or poor ergonomics, and shoulder or wrist problems caused by repetitive tasks. In some cases, a fall on stairs or in communal areas can result in more serious, life-changing harm.

Even injuries that appear minor at first can develop into longer-term conditions, particularly where treatment is delayed or the individual feels pressure to return to work too quickly.

How compensation is calculated during an office accident claim

Compensation in a workplace accident claim is intended to put you, so far as possible, back in the position you would have been in had the accident not occurred.

This may include:

• Damages for pain, suffering and loss of amenity
• Loss of earnings, including future loss where applicable
• Medical and rehabilitation costs
• Additional expenses arising from the injury

The amount awarded will depend on the nature and severity of your injuries and their impact on your daily life and career.

The limitation period (time limit) on personal injury claims

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to issue court proceedings. There are exceptions, but it is always sensible to seek advice as early as possible.

Delays can make it more difficult to gather evidence and establish liability. Acting promptly helps protect your position.

Learn more about the limitation period at: How long do I have to make a personal injury claim?

How Askews Solicitors can support you following an accident in an office environment

If you have been injured in an office workplace accident in Middlesbrough, Redcar or the surrounding Teesside area, our personal injury team at Askews is here to help.

We provide clear, straightforward advice on whether you have a claim and what steps to take next.

If you would like to discuss your circumstances in confidence, Contact Us today. Or visit Accidents at Work to learn more about our services.

This content is for informational purposes and is not intended as advice of any kind.