Employer negligence in industrial occupations is a significant issue of responsibility, and regarding accident and health responsibility, it affects many thousands of workers across the UK. No matter if you work in a factory, warehouse or building site, your employer has a duty to protect your health and safety and ensure you have a safe space to work. This guide explains what negligence means for you as an employer, looks at common industrial injuries, and most importantly, what a  law firm in Manchester might do if you are affected.

Understanding Employer Negligence in Industrial Employment

Employer negligence in industrial employment consists of an employee having to experience injury and chronic health issues due to the employer’s failure. Here are the points to understand:

  • Negligence of Employers includes inadequate or non-existent training, failure to uphold safety regulations, and failure to care for maintenance.
  • Health and safety neglect and failure to review and advise on safety laws are also included. 
  • Employer obligations are set out in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
  • An overview of breach options is available. This includes the Employer’s liability policy and personal injury claims.
  • If the employer is urged to actively protect his/her staff against harmful actions and fails to fulfill this duty, the employer will be found negligent. 

Common Industrial Injuries Caused by Negligence

Industrial workers are put at a lot of risk when employers disregard health and safety measures. Concerns include the very real risk to workers’ health and overall well-being, both physically and psychologically.

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI):

RSI occurs from repeated motions or overworking specific muscles due to improper work practices or insufficient ergonomic assistance. Indications of causes include:

  • Chronic discomfort or weakness of the wrists or arms. 
  • This is particularly common in professions with repetitive actions, such as data entry, assembly line, etc.
  • Usually, a result of poor work breaks or less equipment.



Vibration White Finger:

Vibration white finger occurs after extended periods with vibrating tools or using vibrating tools without any appropriate protective equipment.

Risks and Effects:

  • Numbness, tingling, and loss of function in the fingers.
  • Primarily construction or manufacturing workers.
  • Failure to provide vibration-free gloves or limit the time on tools.

Other Industrial Injury:

Not limited to RSI and vibration white finger, neglect can also lead to:

  • Hearing loss from excessive noise.
  • Respiratory problems from dust or chemicals.
  • Crush injuries from poorly constructed machines.

Legal Responsibilities of Employers

Employers, legally, must take all reasonable steps when ensure the safety of their workers at all times, as per the law, which is subject to strict liability. Major duties include:

  • Regularly assess the risks to identify hazards.
  • Provide training and supervision.
  • Provide and maintain appropriate safety equipment. 
  • Verify that the maintenance of all equipment is being done in a safe condition and order. 
  • Ensure working conditions have been verified and continually improved upon. 

If employers do not comply with these laws they may suffer a negligence claim, fines, or criminal liability.

What You Can Legally Do If You’re Injured

If you sustain an injury as a result of an employer’s negligence in an industrial work setting, you will have clear legal rights. It is best to act quickly and in a methodical manner.

Steps to Take:

  • Report the injury to your supervisor and make sure it is also written in the accident book.
  • Seek medical attention for your injury as soon as possible.
  • Produce evidence such as photographs, witnesses, and medical records.

Building a Case:

  • Keep a record of any expenses or lost income related to your injury.
  • Keep a track record of your illness signs and your recovery on a daily basis.
  • Consult a law firm in Manchester that deals with making an industrial injury claim.

How a Law Firm in Manchester Can Help

A specialist law firm in Manchester should be your trusted partner when pursuing compensation for the negligence of your employer on an industrial site.

Why Use a Local Expert?

  • Knowledge of your local employers and insurers.
  • Experience with repetitive strain injury and vibration white finger.
  • They have a record of fair compensation and can help to maximise your claim.

What You Can Expect?

  • Free assessment of your case and initial consultation.
  • No win, no fee representation to ease the financial burden.
  • Full assistance with gathering evidence and medical reports.
  • Professional advice on your rights and options for moving forward.

Protect Your Rights: Take Action Now

Employer negligence in industrial occupations is not just a legal matter; it is a matter of your health, income, and dignity. If you have sustained an injury like repetitive strain injury or vibration white finger, don’t wait. The professional law firm in Manchester can help you get the compensation you deserve. 

Get in touch with Jiva Solicitors now for a confidential initial consultation. You are welcome to leave any comments or questions in the comments section, and please share this article with anyone who may find it useful.