Did you trip over an uncovered cable? Did you hurt your back lifting heavy boxes? Did your office chair collapse? Were you shocked by faulty electrical equipment? These are just a few of the reasons why people injured at work call Graham Coffey & Co.
Risk of Injury in an Office
Offices are just as dangerous as other workplaces, especially if employers haven't taken their duty to protect employees seriously. Following are some of the most common causes of office accidents we handle at Graham Coffey & Co:
- Electricity/shock injuries and electrocution: It is the employer's duty to inspect, test and maintain electrical equipment. Failure to do so can result in serious injuries and death by electrocution.
- Poor maintenance/slips, trips and falls: Falls are perhaps the most common office accidents. Some examples of poor maintenance that can cause slips, trips and falls include uncovered cables, poorly stored materials, wet floors, inadequate warning signs, poorly gritted office entrances in icy weather, and poorly maintained and icy car parks.
- Poor lighting: Offices can be cluttered with files, furniture, cables and many other items. Poor lighting increases the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Heavy objects: Employers must train employees on how to identify the weight of objects and how to lift objects safely. Additionally, when materials need to be stored at heights, an assessment must be conducted on the appropriate height of storage.
- Unsuitable office equipment: All job tasks should be risk assessed and employers should ensure that employees have the right equipment for the job.
- Poorly organised work stations: Many office employees suffer back, neck, wrist and arm injuries caused by poor desk setups or work stations. If part of your work station was not properly arranged and you developed carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain or other injuries, contact our solicitors.
- Traps: Employers can be held liable for unsafe work conditions in cases of trapping injuries. Some examples include injuries caused by fingers or clothing caught in doors, windows or office equipment.
- Improper storage of materials: Boxes and containers shouldn't be stored on top of cupboards or at heights due to the increased risk of the items falling or sliding down on employees. Similarly, computers, printers and other office equipment should not be placed where they can fall. Additionally, the aisles, corners and passages of the office shouldn't be obstructed, and the fire equipment, including sprinklers and fire exits must not be obstructed.
Our Team of Experienced Solicitors
At Graham Coffey & Co, our Manchester office accident solicitors personally get to know our clients. Upon retaining us, you will have direct access to your solicitor who will help you understand your claim and keep you updated at all times. Our goal is to help you recover from your injury and obtain maximum compensation.
Visit What's My Claim Worth? and our Work Accident FAQs to learn more about making an injury claim after an office accident.
