Employer liability

Every employer in the UK is responsible for ensuring their employees are safe whilst at work. The Employer Liability Act 1969 states Employers must have insurance that will cover the cost of any claim brought against them if an employee is injured at work.

Employers must ensure the following:

• The workplace is safe
• They have completed a risk assessment
• All materials are handled, stored and used safely
• They must provide adequate first aid facilities
• Inform staff about any potential hazards from the work you do, chemicals used by the firm. Ensure instruction, training and supervision is given when needed
• Ensure temperature, lighting, toilet and washroom facilities all meet health and safety requirements
• Provide protective clothing where needed
• Make sure there are no trailing wires or obstructions in the workplace that could cause accidents

When an employee is injured at work due to their employer being negligent or not following safety guidelines that would have prevented the accident happening they could be liable and have to pay compensation to the injured employee.