Getting injured at work is something no one wants to go through – employees and employers in kind. Yet, each year, hundreds of thousands of people are affected by work-related illnesses and accidents – according to the Health and Safety Executive, 1.8 million working people suffered from a work-related illness in 2021/22, and 565,000 sustained an injury at work.
To prevent these statistics from growing further, the government sets out health and safety rights for workers. Learning what they are is key to keeping safe at work – and holding your employer to account in the event they don’t meet their responsibilities and you are hurt.
In this guide, find out the main health and safety rights you have at work and what to do if the worst happens and you’re hurt.
What are employees’ main health and safety rights?
The main health and safety rights that employees are afforded by decades of legislation are as follows:
– Adequate training of staff to ensure health and safety procedures are understood and adhered to
– Adequate welfare provisions for staff at work
– A safe working environment that is properly maintained and where operations within it are conducted safely
– Suitable provision of relevant information, instruction, and supervision.
As part of this, employers must assess the risks within the workplace, provide information about said risks, and consult with their employees on issues of health and safety. Alongside training, information on relevant health and safety topics should be clearly displayed around the workplace.
What should you do if you’re hurt at work?
If you are hurt at work, then it’s important that you hold the employer to account. It can be daunting, but failure to do so can mean others are put at risk from the same dangers.
What’s more, if your injuries are severe, compensation can help you recover or learn to live with your injury. For instance, brain injury solicitors may be able to help you to claim funds to cover lost earnings, the cost of adapting your home, and more.
If you are hurt at work and the response is, it’s important you first visit a doctor as soon as possible, so the injury can be added to your medical records. The accident should be reported at work and recorded in an accident book too.
From there, you should receive sick pay if you are eligible, or be able to claim Universal Credit. If the injury was your employer’s fault you may then wish to claim compensation via a personal injury claim.
When your injuries are severe, you need rehabilitation, which physical therapy can address. It’s essential to actively participate in your physical therapy program and communicate openly with your therapist about your goals, concerns, and any changes in your condition. With dedication and consistent effort, physical therapy plays a significant role in helping you regain mobility, strength, and independence after a workplace injury.
Employers must ensure the safety, health, and well-being of their employees in the workplace. When an employee is a victim of personal injury on the job, employers must handle the situation with care, compassion, and in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
Employers should offer support and assistance to injured employees, including helping them navigate the workers’ compensation process if applicable, arranging transportation to medical facilities, and providing resources for medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Moreover, employers should offer access to employee assistance programs (EAPs) or counseling services to support the mental and emotional well-being of the injured employee, particularly if the injury has caused psychological distress or trauma.
By treating employees who are victims of personal injury with empathy, support, and a commitment to their well-being, employers can demonstrate their dedication to creating a safe and healthy workplace culture.
Read Also
- What Is a Hernia? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Hernias A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. While hernias can develop in different parts of the body, they are most common in the abdomen and groin areas. Causes of Hernias Several factors contribute to the development of a hernia, including:… Read more: What Is a Hernia? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options - The Rise of Wellness Tourism: How Travel and Self-Care Are Creating a New IndustryTraditional vacations are transforming. Travelers are no longer satisfied with simply lying on a beach or visiting tourist attractions. Many now seek experiences that leave them feeling better than when they arrived. The global wellness tourism industry has seen remarkable growth in recent years: This shift matters because it changes how destinations market themselves and… Read more: The Rise of Wellness Tourism: How Travel and Self-Care Are Creating a New Industry
- Meet the Experts: The Team Behind Torrance Bariatrics and Weight Loss SurgeryWhen it comes to weight loss surgery, having a team of experienced professionals by your side can make all the difference. At Torrance Bariatrics Institute, patients are supported by a team of dedicated experts who are committed to delivering personalized care and helping individuals achieve their weight loss goals. In this article, we’ll introduce you… Read more: Meet the Experts: The Team Behind Torrance Bariatrics and Weight Loss Surgery
- Why Medical Debt Often Leads to Increased Financial Stress in Other AreasMedical debt is one of the most significant contributors to financial stress in the United States. With rising healthcare costs, unexpected medical emergencies, and inadequate insurance coverage, millions of Americans find themselves burdened by medical bills that ripple through their overall financial stability. This article explores why medical debt often leads to financial stress in… Read more: Why Medical Debt Often Leads to Increased Financial Stress in Other Areas
- Breaking the Stigma: How Open Conversations Can Transform the Way We View Eating DisordersEating disorders are complex mental health conditions that affect millions of individuals and families worldwide. Despite their prevalence, they remain shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding, making it difficult for those affected to seek help or even acknowledge their struggles. Open conversations have the power to break down these barriers, fostering understanding, compassion, and support. By… Read more: Breaking the Stigma: How Open Conversations Can Transform the Way We View Eating Disorders
