Being injured at work is a daunting experience, especially if you work in a small company where everyone knows each other. But it’s important to remember that your health is the most important thing and there are laws to protect you. This guide will help you understand what to do if you’ve been injured at work in Northern Ireland, with a focus on what’s important for people who work in small businesses.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health should always come first. Even if you think an injury is minor, it’s always a good idea to speak with a doctor. This can help you get better faster and could also be important if you decide to make a claim later on.
2. Report the Injury to Your Employer
It’s important to know that in Northern Ireland, you must let your employer know about any workplace injury as soon as you can. This is true even if you work in a small company where everyone knows each other. Make sure your injury is officially noted, either in the company’s accident book or by writing a report for your manager or HR person.
If your company doesn’t have a specific way to report injuries, which can happen in smaller businesses, it’s important to write down what happened. You can send an email or letter to your employer telling them about the injury, what happened, and when and where it took place.
3. Gather Evidence
Collecting evidence is very important when making a claim. This could include photos of where the accident happened, statements from people who saw what happened, and any safety reports that are relevant. If your injury was caused by broken machines or unsafe working conditions, it’s important to document these as much as possible.
In small businesses, safety rules might not be followed as strictly as in bigger companies. This could be good for you when trying to prove someone was negligent. However, because people in small businesses often know each other well, it might be difficult to gather evidence without feeling uncomfortable. Still, this is very important for your case.
4. Understand Your Rights Under Northern Irish Law
The Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 says that employers must keep their workplaces safe. This law applies to all businesses, no matter how big or small. Employers must do regular checks to find any dangers and take steps to fix them.
If your injury happened because of your employer’s negligence, you might be able to claim compensation. Northern Ireland has laws to protect employees, including those in small businesses, so that everyone has the right to a safe workplace.
5. Consult a Solicitor Specialising in Work Accidents in Northern Ireland
After telling your employer about your injury and collecting evidence, you should speak to a solicitor who specialises in workplace injuries. This is especially important if you work in a small company where personal relationships might make things difficult. A solicitor will help you understand the legal process and make sure your claim is handled professionally without affecting your relationships with your coworkers.
In Northern Ireland, law firms like Paschal O’Hare Personal Injury Solicitors have a lot of experience with workplace injuries. They can give you advice that is specific to the laws in your area and make sure your claim is handled by experts.
Contact Paschal O’Hare Solicitors for Your Work Injury Claim
If you’ve been injured at work, especially in a small company, it can be difficult to understand how to make a claim for compensation. This is where expert legal advice is very helpful. Contacting Paschal O’Hare Personal Injury Solicitors can make a big difference in making sure your rights are protected and you get the compensation you deserve.
With many years of experience handling work accident claims in Northern Ireland, Paschal O’Hare offers a kind and professional service that is just for you. They will help you with every step of the process, from collecting evidence to negotiating settlements, while always putting you first. Don’t wait — reach out to Paschal O’Hare Solicitors today for a free consultation and take the first step towards getting the justice you deserve.
