Wales has its own Senedd and many devolved powers, but workplace health and safety is not one of them. If you were hurt at work in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Wrexham or anywhere else in Wales, your claim is governed by the same law as a claim in England.
Does the same health and safety law apply in Wales?
Yes. Health and safety at work is a reserved matter under the Government of Wales Act 2006, so the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and all the regulations made under it apply in Wales exactly as they do in England. That includes the rules on risk assessment, manual handling, work at height, work equipment and hazardous substances. The Health and Safety Executive enforces them in Wales.
What is the time limit?
You normally have three years from the accident under the Limitation Act 1980. For industrial diseases and gradual injuries, time runs from the date you first knew the condition was significant and linked to your work. For children, time usually starts on their 18th birthday.
Which court hears the claim?
England and Wales share one court system. Claims arising in Wales are usually issued in, or transferred to, a county court hearing centre in Wales, such as Cardiff, Swansea or Newport (Gwent). The most serious claims may be heard in the High Court. The Civil Procedure Rules apply in the same way as in England.
How is compensation assessed?
Exactly as in England. General damages for the injury are assessed using the Judicial College Guidelines, and financial losses such as lost earnings, care and treatment are calculated on the same principles. See compensation amounts for typical ranges.
Can I use Welsh in my claim?
Yes. Under the Welsh Language Act 1993, anyone taking part in legal proceedings in Wales has the right to speak Welsh. Tell the court in advance so that interpretation can be arranged. Many court forms and leaflets are also available in Welsh.
What kinds of work accident are common in Wales?
Claims in Wales often arise from manufacturing and steel work, construction, agriculture and the NHS and care sector, while former mining and heavy-industry workers bring many industrial disease claims. See construction site accidents, agriculture and farming claims and industrial disease claims.
Can I use a solicitor based in England?
Yes. Solicitors regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority can act anywhere in England and Wales, so you are free to choose the firm that suits you, on a no win, no fee basis if your claim qualifies.
Sources
Browse every plain-English guide in the work accident guides hub, or read the main guide to how a claim works.
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every claim turns on its own facts. For advice about your specific situation, speak to a regulated solicitor.