Hi Taz
Sorry to hear about the accident - I assume that you're back working ok again now.
In short, from the information that you've given, it sounds like you may have a claim for compensation. Where work involves employees having to deal with equipment that could be dangerous or hazardous then proper instruction should be given, the necessary riak assessments undertaken, and procedures put in place to deal with them. Most importantly, any employer should only provide equipment that complies with requirements.
From your note it seems like your employer started to do all the right things.....after your accident! It is good that the accident was recorded and clearly the company took notice of it and decided to act. Your fall led to you being away from work for a month, and you were signed-off by your GP - these are all things that would be taken into account . It seems that you might still be able to get to the step-ladder as evidence.
In a claim such as this you would be able to claim compensation for the pain and suffering from your injury; in addition if you lost pay through being off work you can claim for that, as well as any out-of-pocket expenses. Once all the details are available a better 'estimate' of a claim can be made.
Taz, you have 3 years from the date of the accident to make a claim (unless you were under the age of 18 when it is 3 years from attaining the majority age) and you would be looking for this to be run on a Conditional Fee Arrangement (better known as No Win No Fee) so that you keep 100% of the compensation award, as well as removing any risk to you in running the case. You need to use a specialist personal injury solicitor that is experienced in Employer's Liability cases.
What I usually say to employees looking to claim is be aware that it can be a bit 'difficult' at work (you don't say whether you still work for them or not) once they know that a claim is underway. However, there is no excuse for poor or dangerous work practices and the speed in which they made changes after your accident highlights that they knew that improvements were needed. In addition, why should you be the one left worst off? The business will be covered for employer's liability and that's who will deal with the claim from their side.
I hope this helps - good luck!
Steve
