Introduction
Falls are one of the most common workplace accidents, ranging from slips on wet floors to serious falls from height. These accidents can cause broken bones, head injuries and long-term disability. If your fall was caused by unsafe working conditions or employer failings, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
This page explains common fall accidents, employer duties, evidence that helps, and how much compensation you could claim.
At a glance
- Around 125,000 workers suffered injuries in falls at work (same level and from height combined) between 2021/22 and 2023/24, a rate of 396 per 100,000 workers (Source: WAAC analysis of the HSE LFS data published 12/2024)
- Falls can happen on the same level (slips and trips) or from height (ladders, scaffolding, platforms).
- Employers must comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act and Work at Height Regulations 2005.
- Compensation can cover pain, suffering, treatment, lost income and future care needs.
- The time limit is usually three years from the accident or “date of knowledge.”
Report the fall and photograph the surface and lighting. Note height, footwear and weather if relevant. Get witness names and ask for CCTV and the accident book entry.
John Kushnick
Legal Operations Director
National Accident Law
What is a fall at work?
A fall at work is any incident where a worker loses balance and suffers injury, either on the same level or from height. Falls are a leading cause of serious workplace injury. Common types include:
- Slips and trips – on wet, oily or cluttered floors.
- Falls from ladders – often due to poor equipment or unsafe positioning.
- Falls from scaffolding or platforms – caused by missing guardrails, unstable structures or lack of fall protection.
- Falls into holes or openings – if areas are not properly covered or signposted.
- Falls on stairs – due to poor lighting, loose handrails or worn surfaces.
See: HSE: Slips and trips and HSE: Work at height.
Examples of fall accidents and injuries
| Accident type | Cause | Possible injury |
|---|---|---|
| Slip on wet floor | No warning signs or poor cleaning systems | Sprains, fractures, back injuries |
| Fall from ladder | Unstable ladder, poor positioning | Broken bones, head injury, spinal damage |
| Fall from scaffolding | No guardrails or safety harnesses | Serious trauma, paralysis, fatalities |
| Trip over clutter | Obstructed walkways, poor housekeeping | Bruises, strains, broken wrist |
| Fall on stairs | Poor lighting, worn steps | Fractures, head injury, back pain |
Am I eligible to claim?
You may be able to claim if:
- Your fall at work happened in the last three years, and
- Your employer failed to provide safe equipment, training, PPE, or maintain a safe environment, and
- Medical evidence links your injury to the accident.
If unsure, see Do I have a claim and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
The value of a fall at work injury claim depends on your individual circumstances. Compensation is made up of two parts:
- General damages: for the pain, suffering and impact on your quality of life.
- Special damages: for financial losses such as lost earnings, medical treatment, rehabilitation and travel expenses.
Our compensation calculator uses the latest Judicial College Guidelines to estimate how much you could claim. It considers the type and seriousness of your injuries, multiple injuries where relevant, and any additional financial losses.
When is my employer responsible?
Employers are legally responsible under the Health and Safety at Work Act, the Work at Height Regulations 2005, and the Slips and Trips guidance. Duties include:
- Carrying out risk assessments for working at height and slippery surfaces.
- Providing safe equipment such as secure ladders and scaffolding.
- Maintaining clean, clutter-free walkways and stairs.
- Providing training and supervision on safe working methods.
- Supplying and enforcing the use of PPE where necessary, such as non-slip footwear or fall harnesses.
If your employer failed in these duties, they may be liable. See also Health and safety breach injury claims.
Employment status and fall at work claims
Falls from height or on the level often result from poor housekeeping or unsafe access. You can usually claim if negligence is proven, whatever your contract type. See how employment status affects your claim:
Evidence that strengthens a fall at work claim
- Medical records describing your injury and treatment.
- Accident book entries and incident reports.
- Photographs of the accident location and equipment involved.
- Witness statements from colleagues.
- Risk assessments, training records, and PPE provision records.
Time limits for fall at work claims
You usually have three years from the date of the accident or from when you realised your injury was linked to work (the “date of knowledge”). Exceptions apply if you were under 18 or lack capacity. See time limits for claims.
FAQs
New to claims? Start with our work injury claim guide, or see the full work injury claim FAQs.
What if I slipped but did not report it straight away?
You may still be able to claim if there is medical evidence and supporting witness testimony. See How to report and record an accident.
Can I claim if I was partly responsible for my fall?
Yes, but your compensation may be reduced for contributory negligence. See What is contributory negligence?.
Do I need a medical assessment?
Yes. An independent medical expert will examine your injury and provide a report. See What happens at a medical appointment.
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 October 2025 by Chris Salmon
External references
- HSE: Slips, trips and falls - provides guidance on preventing falls in the workplace, including employer responsibilities to reduce risks.
- GOV.UK: Compensation after an accident or injury - outlines the process for claiming compensation for injuries from falls at work.
- Acas: Health and safety - offers advice on workplace safety regulations, relevant to establishing liability in fall-related injury claims.
- HSE: Workplace injury statistics - provides data on workplace falls, useful for understanding risks and supporting compensation claims.