If you have been injured at work as a result of a falling object, there may be circumstances where a personal injury claim can be brought.

Accidents involving falling objects can occur in a wide range of workplaces and often happen without warning. Materials, tools or equipment that are not properly stored or secured can fall from height or become dislodged, creating a risk of injury to those below.

These accidents are commonly seen on construction sites, in warehouses and in industrial settings, but can also arise in offices, retail environments and other workplaces.

Where an injury is caused by falling objects or materials, and appropriate safety measures were not in place, there may be circumstances in which a personal injury claim can be brought.

These types of workplace accidents can affect employees, contractors and agency workers across a wide range of industries.

How falling object accidents happen

Falling object accidents often arise where items have not been stored, handled or secured correctly.

Common causes include:

• materials or tools falling from height
• poor stacking or storage of goods
• objects falling from shelving or racking systems
• failure to secure loads during lifting or moving
• inadequate use of protective barriers or netting
• items being dislodged during work activity

In many cases, these accidents could be reduced or avoided through proper planning and appropriate safety measures.

Responsibilities for safe storage and handling

Employers and those responsible for managing a workplace have a duty to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable risks.

In relation to falling objects, this may include:

• ensuring materials are stored safely and securely
• using appropriate systems to prevent objects falling from height
• maintaining shelving, racking and lifting equipment
• implementing safe working practices when handling materials
• providing suitable training and supervision

Where these steps are not taken and an injury occurs, responsibility may arise depending on the circumstances.

The impact of falling object injuries

Injuries caused by falling objects can vary depending on factors such as the size, weight and height involved.

These may include:

• head and brain injuries injuries
• fractures and soft tissue injuries
• crush injuries
• more serious or long term physical effects

In some cases, the impact may affect a person’s ability to work, particularly where the role involves physical activity or manual tasks.

Even where injuries appear less serious at first, symptoms can develop over time.

Claiming compensation for a falling object accident

If an injury was caused by falling objects or materials in the workplace, a claim for compensation may be possible depending on the circumstances.

A claim may take into account:

• the nature and severity of the injury
• any time off work or loss of earnings
• the effect on day to day activities
• treatment or rehabilitation needs

Each case will depend on how the accident occurred and whether appropriate safety measures were in place.

How our workplace accident solicitors can help

Our Personal Injury solicitors at Clarkson Wright & Jakes can assist with falling object claims by:

• reviewing how the incident occurred
• identifying whether materials or equipment were properly secured
• considering who may be responsible
• gathering relevant evidence, including workplace and safety records
• explaining funding options, including no win no fee arrangements and Legal Expenses Insurance, where applicable

We consider each case based on the specific working environment and how the accident arose.

What happens first?

The first step is a confidential, no obligation conversation.

We will listen to what has happened, consider how the accident occurred and whether appropriate safety measures were in place, and explain whether there may be a basis for bringing a claim. We can also outline the next steps if you decide to proceed.

There is no pressure to move forward, and any discussion can take place at a pace that feels right for you.

Time limits for falling object claims

Personal injury claims are subject to time limits. In most cases, a claim must be started within three years of the accident or the point at which you became aware of the injury.

In workplace accident cases, early steps can help ensure that relevant information — such as incident reports, witness details or CCTV footage — is retained.

Falling object claims – frequently asked questions

Can I claim if I was hit by something falling at work?

A claim may be possible depending on how the accident happened and whether appropriate safety measures were in place, including whether materials were stored or secured safely.

Do falling object accidents only happen on construction sites?

No. While they are common in construction environments, they can also occur in warehouses, retail settings, offices and other workplaces.

Who is responsible for a falling object accident?

This will depend on who was responsible for storing or securing the item and for managing the working environment.

What if the object fell accidentally?

A claim will depend on whether reasonable steps were taken to prevent the risk of objects falling and whether appropriate safety measures were in place.

Speak to us about a falling object claim

If you have been injured as a result of an object falling in the workplace, an initial conversation can help you understand whether there may be grounds for bringing a claim and what steps may be available.

There is no obligation to proceed, and all enquiries are handled in confidence.

Contact our Personal Injury team at Clarkson Wright & Jakes on 01689 887887 or at cwj@cwj.co.uk to discuss an electric shock or electrocution claim. 

Alternatively, you can complete our Personal Injury Calculator here.