Migrant workers play an important role across many industries, including construction, agriculture, warehousing, hospitality and care work. In some cases, however, the conditions under which work is carried out can increase the risk of injury.

Workplace accidents affecting migrant workers often arise in environments where safety procedures are not properly followed, or where workers may not have received the same level of training, supervision or support as others.

If an injury occurs in these circumstances, it may still be possible to bring a personal injury claim.

What is meant by a migrant worker?

A migrant worker is generally someone working in the UK who is not a national of the UK and may be employed on a temporary, seasonal or long‑term basis.

This can include:

• workers on sponsored visas
• seasonal or agricultural workers
• workers placed through agencies
• individuals working in temporary or short‑term roles

A person’s employment status or immigration position does not prevent workplace safety responsibilities from applying.

How accidents affecting migrant workers happen

Accidents involving migrant workers can occur in many of the same ways as other workplace accidents, but there may be additional contributing factors.

Common issues include:

• lack of clear training or instructions
• language barriers affecting understanding of safety procedures
• unfamiliarity with equipment or working practices
• pressure to carry out tasks without appropriate support
• unsafe working environments or poor supervision

In some cases, workers may not feel able to raise safety concerns, which can increase risks over time.

Workplace safety responsibilities

Employers and those responsible for managing work must take reasonable steps to ensure all workers are kept safe, regardless of their background or employment status.

This may include:

• providing appropriate training and instruction
• ensuring safety procedures are clearly understood
• maintaining safe equipment and working conditions
• supervising work and managing risks appropriately

These responsibilities apply equally to all workers.

Where they are not met and an accident occurs, responsibility may arise.

The impact of workplace accidents

Workplace injuries can affect migrant workers in the same way as any other employee, but the wider impact can sometimes be greater depending on individual circumstances.

Injuries may include:

• fractures and physical injuries
• manual handling or strain injuries
• injuries caused by equipment or workplace vehicles
• longer‑term or permanent health effects

In some cases, an injury may affect the ability to continue working, which can have wider consequences.

Claiming compensation for a workplace accident

If a workplace accident was caused by unsafe working conditions or a failure to manage risks properly, compensation may be available.

A claim may take into account:

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

A person’s background or employment position does not automatically prevent a claim from being made.

Each case will depend on how the accident occurred and the circumstances involved.

Can migrant workers bring a claim?

Yes.

Migrant workers can still bring a personal injury claim if they have been injured at work in the UK. Workplace safety duties apply regardless of nationality or employment arrangement.

In many cases, the key issue will be whether reasonable steps were taken to ensure safety.

How our workplace accident solicitors can help

Our Personal Injury team can assist with migrant work accident claims by:

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

We approach each case based on the specific working environment and the individual circumstances.

What happens first?

The first step is a confidential, no‑obligation conversation.

We will listen to what has happened and explain whether a claim may be possible. We can also outline the next steps if you decide to proceed.

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

Time limits for migrant worker accident 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 date you became aware of the injury.

Early consideration can help ensure that relevant information — such as employment details or workplace records — is available.

Migrant work accident claims – frequently asked questions

Can I claim if I am not a UK citizen?

Yes. Workplace safety responsibilities apply to all workers, and it may still be possible to bring a claim depending on the circumstances.

Does my visa status affect my ability to claim?

A claim will depend primarily on how the accident occurred and whether safety standards were met.

What if I was employed through an agency?

Responsibility may depend on how the work was arranged and who was responsible for managing safety.

What if I was not given proper training?

Lack of appropriate training or clear instruction may be relevant in assessing whether reasonable steps were taken to prevent injury.

Speak to us about a migrant work accident claim

If you have been injured at work and are unsure about your position, we understand that this can be a difficult situation.

An initial conversation can help you understand your options and what steps may be available, with no obligation to proceed.

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.