A Business Owner’s Guide to Workplace Injury Claims in the UK

The Scope of Workplace Injuries in the UK

According to the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 561,000 workers reported non-fatal injuries in 2022/2023, and 35.2 million working days were lost due to work-related ill health and non-fatal injuries. These injuries aren’t just statistics—they’re disruptions to daily business and lives.

Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up over 99% of UK businesses, often lack dedicated legal teams or full-time safety officers. That makes it even more critical for owners to understand their responsibilities and how to respond when incidents happen.

Employer Responsibilities: Know the Legal Framework

UK business owners are legally obligated under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to provide a safe working environment. This includes:

• Conducting and documenting risk assessments
• Providing training and personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Maintaining equipment and machinery
• Reporting serious incidents under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations)

Non-compliance can result in fines, enforcement action, or personal injury claims filed against the business. If a worker can prove their injury resulted from employer negligence, the business could be held liable for compensation and additional costs.

Common Workplace Hazards That Lead to Claims

Claims most often arise from preventable incidents. Here are five of the most common causes:

• Slips and trips: Often due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or clutter
• Manual handling injuries: From improper lifting or repetitive strain
• Falls from height: Usually involving ladders, scaffolds, or roof work
• Machinery-related accidents: Often due to a lack of training or missing safety guards
• Contact with harmful substances: Especially in manufacturing or lab environments

Knowing these common risks allows employers to target prevention efforts more effectively.

What to Do After a Workplace Injury

If an injury occurs, your immediate response matters just as much as your long-term plan. Here’s what business owners should do:

1. Ensure immediate medical assistance is provided, whether through an on-site first aid officer or emergency services.
2. Record the incident in the company’s accident book, and note witness statements.
3. Report the incident to HSE if it meets the RIDDOR criteria.
4. Conduct an internal investigation to determine root causes and update safety protocols.
5. Communicate with the employee about next steps—whether that includes sick leave, phased returns, or potential claims.

Remaining transparent and cooperative during this process can help minimize friction and demonstrate good faith if a claim is made.

Understanding the Claims Process

If a workplace injury claim is filed, it typically follows a standard progression. The injured employee usually contacts a solicitor or a claims management firm, which will then begin gathering evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, and safety logs. Once the employer (or their insurance provider) receives the claim, negotiations may begin, often resulting in a settlement before going to court.

For business owners unfamiliar with the legal nuances, referring to a trusted UK guide to workplace injury claims can offer clear explanations of procedures, timelines, and employer responsibilities. This type of guidance helps prevent missteps that could escalate costs or damage employee relationships. Understanding the claims journey also allows employers to prepare appropriate documentation in advance, reducing legal exposure.

Best Practices to Reduce Injury Risk

Preventing injuries starts with a proactive safety culture. That includes:

• Onboarding and routine training on safe practices
• Signage and hazard marking to warn of known risks
• Clear communication channels for reporting unsafe conditions
• Regular audits of high-risk areas and equipment
• Engaging employees in creating a safety-first culture

These measures not only reduce the chances of injury but also demonstrate your commitment to employee welfare, which can go a long way in avoiding disputes if incidents occur.

Do You Have the Right Insurance?

Every UK employer is required by law to hold Employers’ Liability Insurance with a minimum cover of £5 million. This insurance covers compensation and legal fees related to employee injury claims.

Make sure your policy is up to date, covers all operational scenarios, and is tailored to your specific risk profile. Review your policy annually or when significant changes occur in your business structure or activities.

Final Thoughts

Workplace injury claims are a reality of running any business with staff. But they don’t have to spell disaster. With a solid understanding of legal obligations, a well-maintained safety program, and clear protocols in place, employers can minimize both the risk and the fallout of workplace accidents.

Business owners who take these steps aren’t just protecting their companies—they’re fostering a work culture where people feel safe, valued, and supported. And that’s good for retention, reputation, and long-term resilience.