Examples of Employers’ Liability Claims

Employers can be held liable for many different types of accidents or issues. In addition to the physical and emotional harm that an incident can cause for an employee and their colleagues, an employers’ liability claim can also result in devastating financial and reputational damage.

Claims Examples

Electric Socks

Electricity can present a potential hazard for employees across all industries. If equipment or infrastructure are poorly maintained, employees who may be performing simple tasks can suffer serious injuries that may lead to a claim.

Manual Handling Injuries

Moving and lifting heavy objects can lead to both injuries and long-term health problems, such as back pain.

If employers do not take appropriate precautions, such as carrying out risk assessments, minimising manual handling tasks, and providing proper
equipment and training, a claim may arise.

Slips, Trips and Falls

These accidents can take place in many different settings across a variety of sectors. If an employee trips over clutter or slips on a wet surface, it is possible that their resulting injuries could lead to an employers’ liability claim.

Falls From Height

Some of the most serious injuries in the workplace can result from falls from height. If workers are performing tasks at height and are injured, employers risk facing a claim if they have not implemented fall arrest systems and provided adequate training and personal protective equipment.

Industrial Diseases

In the event that employees are exposed to hazardous materials while working, they may develop health issues such as occupational asthma, noise-induced hearing loss or asbestosis. These illnesses and injuries can affect employees for the rest of their lives and may lead to costly claims.

What does the law say?

Under the Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969, most employers are require by law to take out this insurance. In fact, you can be fined £2,500 every day you are not properly insured.

We highly recommend you download the free HSE Guide for employers using the following link: https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/hse40.htm

Employers Liability cannot be taken out in isolation. It will always form part of a Combined Liability, Commercial Combined or a Package policy such as Shops, Offices, Hotels, Pubs & Restaurants.

Please contact us if you would like a quotation for your business.