Slips, Trips and Falls at Work Claims

HSE workplace falls statistics show that falls from height were a leading cause of fatal accidents for workers in 2025/26. When the right safety measures aren't in place, accidents can happen. A fall from height may be caused by unsafe conditions, faulty equipment or a lack of proper training and supervision. Injuries can be much more serious and can include broken bones, head injuries, spinal injuries and serious soft tissue damage. 

If you've suffered a fall from a ladder, scaffolding, roof, platform or another elevated area, you could be eligible to make a fall at work claim. If you're not sure where to start, give our Helpline Advisors a call on 08003760150 and they would be happy to talk you through your options.  

Your employer has a duty of care to take reasonable steps to protect your health, safety and wellbeing at work. This means, where possible, preventing slips and trips at work by doing the following:  

• Carrying out appropriate health and safety risk assessments 

• Keeping the workplace, premises and equipment properly maintained 

• Identifying and addressing hazards that could cause an accident 

• Providing suitable training, instruction and supervision 

• Providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) where necessary 

• Putting suitable health and safety procedures in place 

If your employer breaches their duty of care and you have a fall at work as a result, they may be liable for your accident. For example, if you slipped at work because your employer failed to repair damaged flooring, they could be responsible for your injuries if the accident could have been prevented with the right safety measures. 

Source: Values are from the 18th edition of the Judicial College Guidelines, published in April 2026. 

*These figures are provided as a guide only and are not fixed. The final compensation will depend on the specific circumstances of each case, including the severity of the injury, its overall impact and the strength of the evidence. 

Compensation for slips, trips and falls in the workplace is intended to help cover the physical, emotional and financial impact of your injury. Compensation is calculated by assessing general damages and special damages. General damages compensate you for the pain, suffering and impact your injuries have had on your life, which includes:  

• The type and severity of your injuries 

• Any ongoing symptoms or complications 

• The effect on your quality of life 

• Being unable to enjoy your usual hobbies and activities 

• The impact on your ability to work 

• Emotional distress or anxiety 

• Any loss of independence 

Special damages cover financial losses and expenses caused by your injuries. These could include: 

• Loss of earnings from taking time off work 

• Future loss of earnings if you can't work as before 

• Medical treatment, therapy or prescription costs 

• Travel costs for treatment or recovery 

• Repair or replacement of personal belongings damaged in the accident 

• The cost of care or support you need 

• Changes or adaptations to your home or vehicle 

You may still be able to make a workplace slip claim, even if the accident was partly your fault. This is known as split liability and in these instances the amount of compensation you could receive would be reduced to reflect your share of the liability. 

If your employer didn't record that you tripped or slipped at work, you may still be able to make a claim. Your case can be supported by a range of evidence that helps show what happened and whether your employer was responsible. This could include witness statements, CCTV footage, photographs of the accident scene and your medical records. 

We understand that making a claim against your employer can feel uncomfortable. However, you shouldn't have to worry about it affecting your job or how you're treated at work. If you've been injured in an accident that wasn't your fault, you have the right to seek compensation. Employment law protects employees from being treated unfairly, including being dismissed for raising genuine health and safety concerns or taking reasonable steps to protect themselves or others. 

You typically have three years from the date of your accident to make a slip, trip or fall at work claim. If court proceedings are needed, these usually need to be started within this three-year time limit. There are some exceptions, such as if someone has passed away or if you're claiming on behalf of someone else as a litigation friend. 

If you're not sure whether you're within the time limit or could be eligible to claim, our Helpline Advisors are here to provide the guidance you need. Call us on 08003760150 or request a callback at a time that suits you.