Workplace Injury Claims: What do I do if I have an accident at work in Ireland?

4 minute read

Some jobs carry a greater risk of injury than others. For example, working on a construction site is generally more hazardous than working in an office. However, no matter where you work, your employer is required to provide a safe working environment.

In Ireland, the right to a safe working environment is primarily set out in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.

This legislation places a duty on employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of their employees at work. It covers areas such as safe systems of work, training, risk assessments and maintaining a safe workplace.

What happens if I’m injured at work in Ireland?

Although health and safety standards have improved significantly in Ireland and workplace accidents are now less common, they can still occur.

If you are injured in the course of your work and your employer has failed to comply with health and safety regulations, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

A workplace accident claim is when an injured employee seeks financial compensation for their pain, suffering and loss of amenity through legal action. The claim may also include other losses such as loss of earnings and damage to property. To bring a claim, you would usually instruct a personal injury solicitor to act on your behalf.

The role of the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB), formerly the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB), in work accidents

Most workplace accident claims must first be submitted to the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB), formerly the Personal Injuries Assessment Board. IRB is an independent body that assesses personal injury claims without the need for court proceedings.

If you wish to claim compensation for a workplace injury, your solicitor will usually prepare and submit your application to IRB. The employer or their insurer can agree to have the claim assessed by IRB, which will then make an award based on the evidence provided.

If either party rejects the award, or if IRB declines to assess the claim, you may then bring the case before the courts.

Is there a work accident claims time limit?

You have a two-year window from the date of the accident to begin legal proceedings. However, there are certain circumstances that may alter the start date and we can advise you on these.

Unfortunately, some people are not aware that there are time restrictions for filing a personal injury claim, and as a result, some cases may become ineligible for compensation.

To learn more about the limitation period and the exceptions, visit: How long do I have to make a personal injury claim in Ireland?

What kind of work accidents can I claim for?

Workplace accidents can happen in many different ways.

Some of the most common we see in Ireland include:

• Slips and trips caused by wet or greasy surfaces or debris left unattended, such as tools or equipment
• Muscle strains or pulled muscles from lifting heavy objects
• Falls from height, for example from scaffolding or ladders
• Being struck by moving objects, such as machinery or vehicles
• Accidents caused by the negligent or violent actions of another person
• Accidents on farms or in agricultural work, such as injuries caused by livestock or unsafe working conditions

This is not a complete list, and the nature of injuries can vary widely. The level of compensation you may receive will depend on the seriousness of your injuries and the specific circumstances of the accident.

A personal injury solicitor can advise you on the likely value of your claim.

What evidence do I need?

To support a workplace accident claim, you should gather as much evidence as possible to show how the accident happened, who was at fault and the impact it has had on you.

Key evidence often includes:

• An accident report recorded in the workplace accident book
• Witness statements from colleagues or others who saw the incident
• Photographs of the accident scene, any hazards and your injuries
• Medical records and reports detailing your injuries and treatment
• Details of any financial losses, such as lost earnings or medical expenses

Have you been injured at work anywhere in Ireland? Speak with a personal injury solicitor

If you have been injured through no fault of your own and need advice, Contact Us to speak with a solicitor. Or, visit Accidents at Work Claims to learn more about how we can help you.

In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

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