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A Lincolnshire-based Unite member who needed knee surgery after falling down an inspection chamber at work has secured a five-figure settlement.
The 55-year-old Grantham man was cleaning a trailer at a waste recycling firm when he stood on a loose inspection chamber cover and his foot fell into the three-foot hole below.
The accident tore his knee cartilage and accelerated a pre-existing arthritic condition. The Unite member needed an operation and six months off work to recover.
“My colleagues had complained about the loose cover, but it wasn’t until after my accident that it was fixed,” he said. “I was on crutches for seven weeks, so I couldn’t walk properly and I couldn’t drive for what felt like forever.
“My knee is still quite stiff and tightens up after walking.”
He contacted Unite Legal Services and instructed Thompsons Solicitors to make an accident at work compensation claim.
Kevin Hepworth, East Midlands regional legal officer at title="Unite">Unite the Union, said: “We campaign tirelessly to ensure employers provide better health and safety for our members. The fact the loose cover had been reported by employees but was not fixed until after an accident demonstrates why basic workplace safety and health and safety regulations are so important. It also highlights the importance of two-way conversations between employees and employers in maintaining a safe and healthy workplace.”
The worker’s Unite membership meant he kept 100 per cent of the compensation awarded to him.
“Unite and Thompsons couldn’t have been more supportive,” he said. “My injury left me frustrated but my solicitor was very patient and explained the process every step of the way. I can’t recommend them enough.”