Scaffolding Accidents

Any fall from height, and particularly a fall from scaffolding, can result in serious injuries, possibly fatal. Employers have a duty to ensure that all scaffolding is properly erected and regularly checked to ensure it remains safe.

Furthermore, employers must properly train and supervise employees who are working at height, particularly on scaffolding. Sadly, training is often overlooked, resulting in employees not having adequate knowledge on how to work safely on scaffolding.

Common types of scaffolding accidents include:

• Trips or falls on scaffolding due to uneven and badly laid flooring planks, work equipment/materials left in walkways or even poor weather conditions
• A fall due to inadequate safety measures such as missing safety rails or ladders not properly being used
• A scaffolding collapse due to a failure to properly erect the scaffolding or by overloading the scaffolding structure

However, not all scaffolding accidents happen to people who are at work. Sometimes residents or pedestrians can be affected by falling debris or collapsing structures due to faulty scaffolding or poor working practices. In such circumstances, a claim can still be made against the responsible party, even if the injured person is not injured during employment.

Health & Safety laws aim to ensure reasonable steps are put in place by employers to protect their employees – including making sure you have the training and protective equipment needed to avoid an injury in a scaffolding accident. However, these systems can break down when an employer fails to follow the rules and regulations or an accident is caused by the actions (or omissions) of a colleague.

If you do suffer from a scaffolding injury, which wasn’t your fault, Minster Law may be able to help you receive compensation. We will act promptly to ensure the circumstances surrounding the accident are investigated quickly, so the cause of the accident is identified and those responsible are held accountable.

We understand you may have concerns about claiming against your employer, but we’re here to guide you and give you the right advice and help when you need it.