Introduction
Offices may seem like low-risk environments, but accidents are still common. Slips on wet floors, trips over cables, or poorly set up workstations can all lead to injuries that affect your health and ability to work. If your accident happened because your employer failed to provide a safe workplace, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
This page explains common office accidents, employer duties, evidence that helps, and how much compensation you could receive.
At a glance
- Office accidents include slips, trips, falls, repetitive strain injuries and eye strain.
- Employers must comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act and Display Screen Equipment Regulations.
- Compensation can cover pain, suffering, lost wages, rehabilitation and future care needs.
- You usually have three years from the accident or diagnosis to make a claim.
To help your claim, report your injury and photograph the hazard. Keep the DSE or other risk assessments, emails about faulty chairs, cables or lighting and so on. Record time off and any GP or physio advice.
John Kushnick
Legal Operations Director
National Accident Law
What is an office accident?
An office accident is any injury sustained in a workplace such as an office, call centre, or administrative environment. While offices are lower risk than construction or factories, accidents still happen regularly. Common examples include:
- Slips, trips and falls – from wet floors, loose carpets or trailing cables.
- Repetitive strain injury (RSI) – from poor workstation setup or prolonged typing.
- Back and neck pain – caused by poor ergonomics and unsafe seating.
- Falling objects – such as files or equipment from shelves.
- Eye strain – from excessive screen use without breaks or adjustments.
Examples of office accidents and injuries
| Accident type | Cause | Possible injury |
|---|---|---|
| Slip on wet floor | No warning signs, poor cleaning system | Sprains, broken bones, back injuries |
| Trip over cable | Trailing wires or cluttered walkways | Bruises, wrist fractures, head injury |
| Repetitive strain injury | Unsafe desk setup, no breaks | Wrist, shoulder or neck pain |
| Poor seating | Faulty or unsupportive office chairs | Back pain, spinal issues |
| Falling objects | Overloaded shelves or unsecured equipment | Head injury, lacerations |
Am I eligible to claim?
You may be able to claim if:
- Your office accident happened in the last three years, and
- Your employer failed to provide safe equipment, adequate training, or maintain the workplace properly, and
- Medical evidence confirms the injury and its link to the accident.
If unsure, start with Do I have a claim and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
The value of an office accident 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 responsible under the Health and Safety at Work Act and Display Screen Equipment Regulations. They must:
- Carry out risk assessments for slips, trips and ergonomic issues.
- Provide safe equipment such as supportive seating and screens.
- Ensure workstations are set up ergonomically.
- Maintain clear walkways and safe storage systems.
- Provide training on safe screen use and manual handling.
If these duties are breached, your employer may be liable. See also Health and safety breach claims.
Employment status and office injury claims
If negligence played a part, you can usually claim regardless of contract type. See how employment status affects your claim:
Evidence that strengthens an office accident claim
- Medical records confirming diagnosis and treatment.
- Accident book entries and workplace reports.
- Photographs of the accident site or faulty equipment.
- Workstation assessments and training records.
- Witness statements from colleagues.
Time limits for office accident claims
You normally have three years from the date of the accident or the date you realised your injury was linked to work (the “date of knowledge”). Exceptions apply for children and those lacking 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.
Can I claim if I already had back or neck pain?
Yes. You may still claim if your work environment aggravated your condition. See claims for pre-existing conditions.
Do I need to take time off work to make a claim?
No. You can still claim for pain and treatment costs even if you continued working. See claims without time off.
Do I need a medical assessment?
Yes. An independent medical expert will examine you and provide a report to help value your claim. See What happens at a medical appointment.
Have you been injured at work?
One quick call can give you clarity and confidence about your options after a work accident. A specialist advisor will:
- Give free, confidential and impartial advice
- Explain clearly how No Win, No Fee works
- Connect you with the right solicitor for your case
You're under no pressure to claim. We'll get you the right advice, when you need it.
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: Display Screen Equipment Regulations - provides guidance on safe use of display screen equipment to prevent injuries in office environments.
- HSE: Slips and trips - offers advice on preventing slips and trips, common causes of office workplace accidents.
- NHS: How to sit correctly at a desk - provides ergonomic advice to reduce strain and injuries from prolonged desk work.
- GOV.UK: Compensation after an accident or injury - explains the process for claiming compensation for injuries sustained in office accidents.