What is Employers Liability Insurance?
Posted on: January 3rd, 2025
Employers Liability Insurance (ELI) is a vital type of insurance that protects businesses against the financial consequences of employee injuries, illnesses, or accidents that occur in the workplace. It’s legally required for most businesses in the UK, ensuring that employees who suffer harm while working can receive compensation. This insurance covers the costs associated with workplace accidents, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs and compensation for lost earnings.
As an employer, having this cover not only protects your business from significant financial loss but also ensures that your employees are taken care of should something go wrong. In this article, we will explore the differences between Employers Liability and Public Liability insurance, the process of making an Employers Liability claim, and common workplace injuries, including manual handling and forklift truck accidents.
Public Liability vs Employers Liability
While both Public Liability and Employers Liability insurances deal with risks arising from accidents or injuries, they serve different purposes and cover different types of incidents.
Employers Liability Insurance (ELI): This insurance covers businesses for claims made by employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their work. It includes incidents like slips, trips, and falls, accidents involving machinery, exposure to hazardous materials, and manual handling injuries. As mentioned, ELI is a legal requirement in the UK for businesses that employ one or more staff members.
Public Liability Insurance (PLI): Public Liability insurance, on the other hand, covers businesses against claims made by members of the public (non-employees) who suffer injury or damage as a result of the business’s activities. For example, if a customer trips over equipment in a shop, PLI would cover the associated costs. This insurance is not legally required but is strongly recommended for businesses that interact with the public.
How to Make an Employers Liability Claim
If you are an employee who has suffered an injury or illness due to negligence or unsafe conditions at work, you may be entitled to make an Employment Liability claim. Here’s how the process generally works:
Report the Incident: The first step is to report the accident or injury to your employer. This is crucial for both legal reasons and to ensure that the incident is officially documented in your workplace accident book.
Seek Medical Attention: Whether the injury is serious or not, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This documentation will not only help with your recovery but will also serve as important evidence for your claim.
Gather Evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible about the accident. This includes photographs, witness statements, and any correspondence with your employer. It’s also important to keep a record of your medical treatment and any time you’ve had to take off work.
Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor: Engaging with a solicitor experienced in personal injury claims, particularly those related to Employers Liability, can be extremely helpful. A solicitor will guide you through the process, gather evidence, and represent your interests in negotiating a fair settlement.
The Claim Process: Once the evidence is gathered, your solicitor will submit the claim to your employer’s insurance company. The insurance company will either agree to a settlement or dispute the claim. In some cases, the case may go to court.
Accidents at Work: Common Types of Injuries
Accidents at work can happen in any industry, but some types of injuries are more common than others. These injuries can be both physically and financially damaging, and they often result in long-term health issues. Below are a few common workplace accidents that can lead to Employers Liability claims:
Manual Handling Injuries: Manual handling injuries, often caused by improper lifting or carrying of heavy objects, are among the most common workplace injuries. This type of injury can lead to back pain, strains, sprains, and even more serious musculoskeletal disorders. Employers have a duty to ensure that safe manual handling practices are followed and that employees are properly trained to lift and carry objects safely.
Forklift Truck Injuries: Forklift trucks are widely used in warehouses, construction sites, and manufacturing plants. However, accidents involving forklifts can cause serious injuries, ranging from broken bones to crush injuries. Poor training, mechanical failure, or operator error can all contribute to forklift accidents. Employers must ensure that drivers are fully trained and that safety procedures are adhered to at all times.
Conclusion
Employers Liability Insurance is an essential safeguard for both businesses and employees. It provides protection against the financial fallout of workplace injuries and illnesses, ensuring that employees can seek compensation if they are hurt due to negligence or unsafe working conditions. Understanding the difference between Employers Liability and Public Liability insurance is critical for ensuring that all aspects of your business’s risks are covered.
If you have suffered an injury at work, whether due to manual handling, forklift accidents, or other workplace hazards, you may be entitled to compensation. The process of making an Employers Liability claim can be complex, but with the right support from an experienced personal injury solicitor, you can ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Atha & Co, we specialise in personal injury claims and are dedicated to helping employees in Middlesbrough and beyond secure fair compensation for workplace injuries. If you’ve been hurt at work, get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way.