NHS Maintenance Worker Awarded £105,000 After Ladder Fall at Work
Thompsons secured £105,000 in compensation for an NHS maintenance technician who suffered multiple serious injuries after falling from a ladder while carrying out roof repairs during the course of his employment. Thompsons acted on behalf of the UNISON member following the workplace accident involving NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
What happened
The claimant had more than 20 years of service working as a Maintenance Technician for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
He had been tasked with clearing a blocked gully hole on a roof approximately 20 feet above ground level. After completing the work, he began descending from the roof using an extendable ladder.
As he climbed down, the ladder gave way, causing him to fall to the ground.
At the time of the incident, the claimant was working alone and had not been provided with appropriate safety equipment for working at height.
Injuries and Impact
The fall caused several serious injuries, including fractures to both heels, a fractured back and a broken right wrist.
The injuries had a significant impact on the claimant’s life. He experienced ongoing pain and mobility difficulties and required assistance from family members with daily tasks and personal care.
Due to the lasting effects of the injuries, he was absent from work for a prolonged period and his employment eventually ended on capability grounds.
What went wrong
Evidence in the case indicated that the claimant had not been provided with suitable safety equipment for working at height.
He was also carrying out the work alone despite previously raising concerns with management regarding his responsibilities and working conditions.
Legal Approach
Thompsons Solicitors Scotland pursued the claim after being instructed through the claimant’s union, UNISON.
A claim was intimated against NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde. The employer denied liability and argued that the claimant should have requested assistance before undertaking the task.
Despite the denial of liability, Thompsons raised court proceedings in the All-Scotland Personal Injury Court.
As part of the claim, Thompsons obtained expert evidence from a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Consultant Psychiatrist, Consultant Orthotist and a Consultant Actuary to assess the full impact of the injuries on the claimant’s health, mobility and earning capacity.
Outcome
During negotiations, the defenders initially offered £65,000 to settle the claim. Thompsons advised that this offer did not reflect the seriousness of the injuries and it was rejected.
Further offers of £85,000 and £95,000 were also rejected following consultation with the claimant and Counsel.
A final counter-proposal of £105,000 was accepted by the defenders.
Thompsons secured £105,000 in compensation for the claimant.
Seonaid Brophy
Seonaid Brophy
“This case underscores the importance of holding employers accountable for ensuring workplace safety. Our client’s injuries were entirely preventable, and we are pleased to have secured a settlement that provides him with financial security and recognises the challenges he faces moving forward. Every worker deserves to feel safe and supported in their workplace, and this outcome highlights the vital role legal representation plays in achieving justice.”
What this case shows
This case highlights the risks associated with working at height and the importance of employers ensuring that appropriate safety equipment and support are in place.
Workers who are injured due to unsafe conditions may be entitled to pursue compensation through accidents at work claims. Thompsons can often assist clients through the claims process under a No Win No Fee agreement.
Anyone seeking advice after a workplace accident can contact Thompsons to discuss their circumstances.
