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General information only. This site does not provide legal advice. Always consult a qualified solicitor.
In-depth guide · Last reviewed June 2026

Injured by a colleague at work: can I claim?

What is vicarious liability?

Employer liable for employee's negligence in course of employment; Catholic Child Welfare Society v Various Claimants [2012]

When is an employer vicariously liable for a colleague's actions?

Close connection test; acting within course of employment vs personal frolic

What if the colleague was acting outside their job role?

What if the colleague was a manager or supervisor?

How do you make the claim — against the colleague or the employer?

Always against employer; employer's insurer pays; colleague not personally pursued in most cases

What if the colleague was negligent rather than deliberately causing harm?

Negligence is enough — intent not required

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Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.

Enquiries may be referred to SRA-regulated UK solicitor firms where appropriate. No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.

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Where did the accident happen?

Pick the setting closest to your situation.

Sources

  1. : Lister v Hesley Hall [2001] UKHL 22
  2. Catholic Child Welfare Society v Various Claimants [2012] UKSC 56
  3. HSWA 1974

This guide is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.