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

Falls from height are among the most serious types of workplace accident and are a leading cause of significant injury across many industries.

These accidents often occur in environments where tasks are carried out above ground level, including construction sites, industrial settings, maintenance work and, in some cases, office or retail environments.

Where appropriate safety measures are not in place to manage the risks associated with working at height, accidents can occur. If an injury arises from unsafe systems of work or inadequate safety measures, 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.

What is considered a fall from height?

A fall from height does not need to involve a significant distance. It can include any situation where a person falls from one level to another, including:

• falls from ladders or step ladders
• falls from scaffolding or platforms
• falls from roofs or structures
• falls into openings, shafts or unprotected edges

In many cases, the risk arises not just from the height itself, but from how the work is planned and carried out.

How falls from height happen

Falls from height often occur where there has been a failure to properly assess and manage risks.

Common causes include:

• unsafe or unstable ladders or scaffolding
• lack of appropriate fall protection systems
• missing guardrails or edge protection
• inadequate planning or supervision
• unsafe access to elevated working areas
• failure to provide suitable equipment for working at height

These risks can arise in both temporary and permanent work environments, particularly where conditions change or where multiple parties are involved.

Responsibilities when working at height

Working at height is subject to specific safety requirements, and those responsible for managing work activities are expected to take reasonable steps to reduce risks.

This may include:

• properly planning work at height
• using suitable equipment for the task
• ensuring that working platforms are stable and secure
• implementing fall prevention or protection systems
• providing training and supervision

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

The impact of falls from height

Injuries resulting from falls from height can be serious due to the nature of the incident.

These may include:

• fractures and soft tissue injuries
• head injuries
• brain Injuries
• spinal injuries
• long term or permanent physical effects

The consequences of a fall from height may affect mobility, independence and the ability to return to work, particularly in physically demanding roles.

Even where injuries appear less severe, recovery may take time and require ongoing treatment.

Claiming compensation for a fall from height

If a fall from height was caused by unsafe working conditions or a failure to follow appropriate safety measures, a claim for compensation may be possible depending on the circumstances.

A claim may take into account:

• the nature and severity of the injury
• time away from work or loss of earnings
• the effect on day to day life
• any treatment or rehabilitation required

Each case will depend on the specific circumstances of the accident, including how the work was carried out and what precautions were in place.

How our workplace accident solicitors can help

Our Personal Injury solicitors at Clarkson Wright & Jakes can assist with falls from height claims by:

• reviewing how the accident occurred
• assessing whether appropriate safety measures were in place
• identifying who may be responsible
• gathering relevant evidence, including site and safety records
• explaining funding options, including no win no fee arrangements and Legal Expenses Insurance, where applicable

Falls from height often involve multiple factors and responsibilities, and we consider each case based on its own facts.

What happens first?

The first step is a confidential, no obligation conversation.

We will listen to what has happened, consider how the work was being carried out 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 falls from height 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 the injury became apparent.

Because falls from height often occur in structured work environments, early steps can help ensure that relevant information — such as incident reports or site records — is preserved.

Falls from height claims – frequently asked questions

Can I claim after falling from a ladder at work?

A claim may be possible depending on how the accident happened and whether the equipment was safe, suitable for the task and used with appropriate precautions.

What if I fell from scaffolding or a platform?

A claim may be possible depending on whether scaffolding or platforms were properly installed, maintained and secured, and whether appropriate safety measures were in place.

Does a fall have to be from a high level to qualify?

No. Falls from relatively low heights can still result in injury and may give rise to a claim depending on the circumstances.

Who is responsible for a fall from height accident?

This will depend on who was responsible for managing the work and ensuring that appropriate safety measures were in place.

Speak to us about a fall from height claim

If you have been injured as a result of a fall from height at work, 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 a fall from height claim. 

Alternatively, you can complete our Personal Injury Calculator here.