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28th May 2010
Nuclear worker compensated after accident cost her promotion
Slipped on spillage at work
A nuclear plant surveyor who suffered a trapped nerve following a workplace accident has received a substantial sum in compensation after help from her trade union.
The 54-year-old has been forced to go on restricted duties and has missed out on a promotion after slipping on liquid while working at Sellafield in Whitehaven.
The experienced health physics monitor was surveying a room in the nuclear processing plant when she lost her footing on liquid which had been spilt on the floor.
She saved herself from falling to the floor by hanging onto a metal gantry but in doing so trapped a nerve in her back.
Back injury required extensive physiotherapy
She was forced to take more than 10 weeks off work as a result of her injuries which needed extensive physiotherapy.
The GMB member, who had no previous history of back pain has been told her condition is permanent. It has left her unable to fulfil all of her duties at work. Crucially she missed out on a promotion because she cannot put on protective equipment needed in that more senior role.
Following the accident she contacted her union, the GMB, which instructed its lawyers Thompsons Solicitors to pursue a claim for compensation.
Thompsons argued that Sellafield should have taken more care to ensure walkways were kept hazard-free.
The member said: “This accident has meant I have missed out on a significant promotion and I now have to work on restricted duties. I worry about my future employability as I’m less mobile and unable to lift meaning I am restricted in the type of job I can do in the future.
“This accident has also left me unable to enjoy my hobby of fell walking, not to mention the difficulties my injuries cause me in keeping the home and in general everyday life.”
Back pain is now permanent
Steve Gibbons from the GMB added: “This member’s accident has meant she has not only missed out on an important promotion at work but has the added fear that she may not be employable in the jobs market should she be made redundant in the future. The compensation is for both her pain and suffering as well as for the affect on her earning capabilities.”
David Burn from Thompsons Solicitors said: “A simple process to clean up spills would have prevented our client from suffering this injury. Her back problems are disabling and she will have to live with the pain the rest of her life and the level of compensation reflects that as well as her lost promotion.”
Compensation Claim Advice
If you or anyone you know has suffered an injury at work after slipping or tripping, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any personal injury claim. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.
Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online personal injury compensation claim forms.
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