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What Are Falling Object Accidents In The Workplace?
Falling object accidents at work happen when tools, materials, or products drop onto someone below. Even a small item falling from a low height can cause serious injury.
In Scotland, employers have a legal duty under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (as amended) to manage and reduce these risks. They must do what is reasonably practicable to stop items falling from shelves, platforms, or work areas at height, and must warn staff of any known risks.
If you have had a workplace accident, our panel of workplace injury solicitors can explain your options and help you make a claim.
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Common Causes Of Injuries From Falling Objects At Work
Falling object injuries in Scotland often occur because tasks are rushed or work areas are not properly organised and secured. Employers have a duty of care to manage work at height properly, secure items, and keep staff and visitors away from drop zones.
These accidents are common in warehouses, retail stock areas, and construction sites, but they can happen anywhere. A box may slip from a rack, a tool can be knocked from a platform, or items could slip during lifting. Any of these problems can lead to an injury at work, even when the object falls only from a short height.
Common causes include:
- Boxes or materials poorly stacked on shelves or pallets.
- Loads not strapped, wrapped, or secured before moving.
- Missing toe boards, netting, or edge protection on platforms.
- Tools not clipped on with a safety tether when working at height.
- Poor barriers, warning signs, or supervision in busy areas.
How Can Falling Object Accidents Be Prevented?
Preventing falling object accidents is mostly about stopping things from being able to drop in the first place. In Scotland, employers must manage risks linked to falling from height, even when the item is only stored above head level. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) promotes a straightforward approach that helps prevent many accidents at work.
Good control starts with keeping work areas tidy and storing items safely, so nothing is left near an edge or in a place where it could be knocked down. Platforms and walkways should be built and used in a way that keeps tools and materials contained. Employers should also limit what is carried up to a height, because more items usually mean more risk.
Common prevention measures include:
- Storing equipment at height in secure racks or containers.
- Fitting toe boards or close boarded platforms to stop items from being kicked off.
- Using covered walkways to protect people who need to pass underneath work at height.
- Attaching tools to safety lines so a dropped tool cannot hit anyone below.
- Taking only the equipment needed for the job, and removing the rest.
If the risk can’t be eliminated, workers should receive clear warnings, and the area must be restricted to prevent unauthorised access.
Workplace Falling Object Injury Statistics
RIDDOR figures give a useful snapshot of how often people are hurt by falling or moving objects at work, including in Scotland. RIDDOR is the UK reporting system for certain workplace injuries, illnesses, and dangerous accidents.
In 2019 to 2020, reports showed that being struck by a moving or falling object made up 10 per cent of non-fatal specified injuries and injuries that kept someone off work for more than seven days.
The same data shows construction carries a higher share of this risk. Across the years 2017 to 2018, through to 2019 to 2020, being struck by a moving or falling object accounted for 12 per cent of non-fatal injuries in construction, compared with 10 per cent across all industries.
The 2020 to 2021 RIDDOR figures also recorded 17 fatal accidents across all sectors where someone was struck by a moving object. The services sector saw the most accidents involving falling or flying objects, including work in:
- Retail
- Motor vehicle repair
- Accommodation and food service
- Education
- Health and social care
- Scientific and technical roles
- Public administration and defence
These accidents can cause anything from bruising to severe head trauma, brain injuries, or even spinal damage. In the most severe cases, spinal damage can lead to life-changing paralysis.
Who Can Make A Falling Object Injury Compensation Claim?
You may be able to claim compensation in Scotland if you were hurt by a falling object at work and the accident could have been prevented. This often happens when items are stacked improperly in a warehouse, when scaffolding lacks proper edge protection, or when a machine malfunctions and parts come loose. It can also happen if your employer did not give you the right protective equipment, like a suitable helmet, or did not train you correctly.
You can still have a claim if another worker caused the object to fall, but your employer did not manage the risk. If it is not obvious what went wrong, a solicitor can look into the work accident, inspect the area, and gather evidence.
If you were exposed to related risks such as unsafe lifting areas (like poorly organised workspaces, obstructed pathways, or areas with uneven surfaces that made lifting hazardous) or hazardous substances, you should mention this. If the evidence supports it, you may be able to make an accident at work claim for your injuries and financial losses.
Why Choose A Specialist Solicitor For Falling Object Injury Claims?
A falling object injury can turn a normal day into months of pain, time off work, and worry about the future. A specialist solicitor knows exactly what evidence is needed to show how the accident happened and what went wrong.
Our panel of solicitors will take time to understand how the injury has changed your daily life, your income, and your recovery. We will also make sure your accident at work claims reflect the full effect of the injury (not just the first hospital visit) and help you access rehabilitation support while your case progresses. If you would like clear advice about your case, contact us on 01412801112.
Making A Personal Injury Claim In Scotland
Our panel of experienced personal injury lawyers excel in handling cases against well-funded insurance companies.
Our specialised injury lawyers will assist you with your claim, keep you informed throughout the whole process, and provide you with legal advice that is easy to understand.
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Get In Touch.
Tell us your story, we're here to listen and provide you with an initial assessment based on your circumstances.
02
We’ll Prepare Your Claim.
We'll be by your side to take care of the legal process. We'll keep you informed of every step of the way.
03
Receive Compensation.
If your claim is successful, we'll ensure that you get your compensation as soon as possible.
"A Student’s Journey from Trauma to Triumph: Efthymios’s Fight for Justice After a Devastating Car Accident"
When Efthymios was injured in a car accident, he was left with severe facial injuries. He didn’t know how he would manage his recovery and studies.
“When I got in contact with HD Legal, they made me feel supported. They were incredibly understanding and fought hard for me, ensuring I received the compensation I deserved.”
"Cracked Pavement, Broken Ankle: How HD Legal Helped Margaret Find Justice and Peace of Mind"
When Margaret tripped on a neglected crack in the pavement in Glasgow, she shattered her ankle and was forced to take months off work, unsure how she would manage.
“HD Legal were a lifeline for me. They took care of everything—from gathering crucial evidence to battling the council—and gave me the peace of mind I needed to focus on my recovery.”
"Blown Away: HD Legal Fights for Douglas After Faulty Washing Machine Explosion"
When Douglas’s new washing machine exploded, it caused a fire that damaged his kitchen and left him with painful burns.
“HD Legal fought relentlessly for me when it seemed like no one else would. They were thorough, professional, and supported me every step of the way, helping me recover both physically and financially.”
"From Misdiagnosis to Recovery: How HD Legal Fought for Eilidh’s Justice and Secured the Care She Needed"
When Eilidh’s severe abdominal pain was repeatedly misdiagnosed, her condition worsened, leading to the need for urgent surgery.
“HD Legal stood by me when I felt lost. They were thorough, professional, and fought tirelessly to get me the care and compensation I needed to heal.”
"Falling from Heights, Rising with Justice: How HD Legal Secured Compensation for Alistair After a Workplace Accident Involving Faulty Scaffolding"
Alistair Campbell’s fall from faulty scaffolding left him with serious injuries and months of recovery.
“HD Legal’s panel of solicitors fought for me, ensuring I received the support needed to move forward.”
Injury From Falling Objects Lawyers In Scotland
Falling object injuries can happen in many workplaces, from warehouses and construction sites to shops and garages. They can cause anything from painful hand and foot injuries to serious head, brain, or spinal harm.
The HD Claims panel of specialist workplace accident solicitors can help you understand what happened and what evidence may be useful. This may include witness information, an accident book entry, photos, and travel or treatment receipts.
They will give you a clear idea of how strong your claim is and explain the next steps in the process. Where it fits your situation, our panel’s solicitors may be able to take your case on a no win no fee basis so you can get legal assistance without added financial pressure.
Do You Need A Personal Injury Solicitor For A Falling Object Accident?
If you were injured by a falling object at work, you should consult a lawyer, especially if the accident could have been avoided. These accidents can occur in farming, construction, manufacturing, and service industries and have an impact on your health, income, and family life.
A solicitor can assess whether you have a valid claim for pain and suffering, lost earnings, and other related costs. Our panel of solicitors will look at what went wrong and whether another party’s negligence played a part, which is central to most personal injury claims Scotland. For free advice, call 01412801112.
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Start Your Falling Object Injury Claim Today
Getting started is simple, and you can choose the way that suits you best. In Scotland, you can reach us through our online form, by phone, or by live chat. If you begin online, these are the usual steps.
Complete Our Online Form
Share a few details about what happened and how you were injured. This helps us understand your situation and what support you may need.
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One of our team members will contact you to ask a few clear questions. You can also call us directly on 01412801112 if you prefer.
Full Appointment With A Specialist
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FAQs
Can I claim compensation for an injury caused by a falling object at work?
You may be able to claim in Scotland if you were hurt at work and the accident could have been prevented. This often involves unsafe storage, missing safety controls at height, or poor planning of the job. A solicitor can listen to what happened and tell you if you have a case.
What does employer negligence involve?
Negligence usually indicates that your employer did not take reasonable precautions to keep you safe. This could include things like inadequate training, missing safety equipment, unsecured loads, or no barriers to prevent objects from falling. It can also include ignoring a risk that had been raised before.
What costs and damages can compensation cover?
Compensation can cover your injury and the knock-on effects on your life. This can include lost pay, travel expenses, medical treatment, rehabilitation, and help at home. If the injury affects your mental health, it may also cover counselling or mental therapy costs.
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