Apprentices and trainees injured at work
Updated: September 27, 2025 By Chris Salmon
Apprentices and trainees have the same right to a safe workplace as any other employee. Because they are often young or new to a role, they are particularly at risk if training or supervision is poor. If you were injured as an apprentice or trainee, you may be able to claim compensation if employer negligence caused your accident.
This page explains your rights, how claims work, and what evidence helps.
At a glance
- Over 752,000 people were participating in apprenticeships across England in 2022/23 (Source: DfE Apprenticeships data)
- Apprentices and trainees are legally protected under health and safety law and employment law.
- Employers must provide training, supervision and protective equipment.
- Accidents involving apprentices often involve machinery, manual handling, or slips and trips.
- You may be entitled to compensation, sick pay, and support with rehabilitation.
- Time limits for claims are generally three years, but if under 18, the limit runs from your 18th birthday.
Common accidents involving apprentices and trainees
Because apprentices and trainees are often new to the workplace, they are more vulnerable to accidents caused by lack of training or supervision. Typical accidents include:
- Machinery accidents – using tools or equipment without proper instruction.
- Slips, trips and falls – from cluttered walkways, wet floors or poor housekeeping.
- Manual handling accidents – lifting or moving loads without proper training.
- Chemical or hazardous substance exposure – when COSHH rules are not followed.
- Vehicle and site accidents – such as forklift, digger or site transport injuries.
Am I eligible to claim?
You may be able to claim if:
- You were injured in the last three years (or since turning 18, if you were under 18 at the time of the accident), and
- Your employer failed to provide training, supervision, PPE, or safe working conditions, and
- Medical evidence links your injury to the accident.
If you are unsure, see Do I have a claim? and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
The value of an apprentice or trainee injury claim depends on your circumstances. Compensation is made up of two parts:
- General damages: for pain, suffering and loss of amenity.
- Special damages: for financial losses such as lost wages, medical costs, travel expenses, or future loss of earnings.
If your training or apprenticeship was interrupted, you may also claim for the impact on your career prospects.
Our compensation calculator uses Judicial College Guidelines to give an estimate based on your injury type and severity.
Employer responsibilities towards apprentices and trainees
Employers owe the same duty of care to apprentices and trainees as to any other employee. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act, they must:
- Provide proper training and induction.
- Ensure supervision by competent staff.
- Carry out risk assessments for young or inexperienced workers.
- Supply personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Keep the workplace and equipment safe and maintained.
Negligence in any of these areas may make them liable for your injury. See also Inadequate PPE claims.
Evidence that strengthens your claim
- Accident book entries and incident reports
- Medical records and fit notes
- Training records and induction materials
- PPE provision records
- Witness statements from colleagues or supervisors
- Photographs of the accident site or equipment
Time limits for claims
Normally you have three years from the date of the accident to start a claim. If you were under 18 at the time, the three-year period starts on your 18th birthday. This means you may be able to claim up until your 21st birthday.
FAQs
What if I was at fault because I was inexperienced?
You may still claim. Employers are expected to anticipate inexperience and provide supervision and safe systems of work.
Can I claim if I am on a work experience placement?
Yes. Employers owe a duty of care to all workers, including unpaid work experience students.
What happens if my apprenticeship is disrupted?
Your claim may include loss of training opportunities and impact on career progression as part of special damages.
Next steps
If you were injured as an apprentice or trainee, you may be entitled to benefits and compensation. See Guide to claiming benefits and speak with a solicitor about starting your claim.
About the author
Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.
Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon
Have you been injured at work?
If you have been injured at work in the last 3 years, you may be able to claim financial compensation.
Find out more about making a work accident claim:
- Do you qualify?
- How much compensation could you get?
- How does No Win, No Fee work?
Read more: Work accident claim guide
Our work injury advisors will:
- Offer free, impartial advice
- Explain how No Win, No Fee works
- Recommend the right solicitor
External references
- HSE: Employers' responsibilities for young people - how employers must protect apprentices and young workers.
- HSE: Young people at work - overview of health and safety law for young workers.
- GOV.UK: Apprenticeships - official government information on apprenticeships in England.
- ACAS: Young workers, apprentices and work experience - advice on rights, pay and working hours for young people.
