Fall from height claim: compensation for UK workers

How common are fall from height accidents at work?

HSE 2024/25: 680,000 total workplace injuries, falls from height leading fatal cause; RIDDOR data on non-fatal falls

What does the Work at Height Regulations 2005 require?

Hierarchy: avoid work at height where possible; where not, use collective protection (guardrails, nets) before personal protection (harnesses); inspect all equipment; competent persons only

What are the most common causes?

Unguarded edges, defective ladders, unsecured scaffolding boards, fragile roofs, failure to provide harness, wet/slippery surfaces at height

What injuries are typical?

Fractures, head injuries, spinal injuries, internal injuries, fatalities

How is a fall from height claim valued?

Link to /compensation-amounts; reference JCG ranges for fractures, head injuries, spinal injuries

What if safety equipment was not provided?

PPE Regs 1992, WAHR 2005 — employer cannot simply say "worker chose not to use it" if PPE not available

What evidence supports the claim?

Site inspection records, RIDDOR report, photographs, scaffold inspection records, witness statements, training records

Fatal fall from height — what are the family's options?

Brief — see our related guide