The construction industry is the most dangerous industry in the UK, so it is little surprise that it is among the most regulated as far as health and safety is concerned. But serious accidents involving falls from heights, such as scaffolding and roofs, are happening far too often.
If you or a loved one has been injured at work following a fall from height, the specialist accident at work team at mfg Solicitors can advise and support you.
Injuries and deaths
The latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) confirm that falls from height remain a leading cause of death and injury. In the year 2024-2025, there were 35 fatal accidents involving construction workers; and around half of workplace fatalities since 2020 followed falls from a height.
Falls from heights typically cause significant injuries, often leading to long-term physical and psychological problems. Common fall from height injuries include:
- Neck and back injuries
- Bone factures
- Head injuries
- Soft tissue injuries and severe bruising
- Permanent scarring
- Emotional and psychological harm
Employers’ responsibilities
All employers in the building and construction industry must comply with the Health and Safety Act, as well as sector-specific regulations for the construction industry. The Work at Height Regulations, for example, apply to all work at a height where there is a risk of a fall and injury.
There is no shortage of additional guidance for employers. HSE guidance covers all aspects of working from heights, ranging from planning and organising the works and risk assessments, to the provision of appropriate equipment, supervision and further measures to prevent injury while the work is in progress.
Businesses who fail to comply with their statutory duties expose themselves to potential employers’ liability claim for personal injury, as well as investigation and prosecution by the HSE.
In May 2026, for example, company was fined £20,000 after a worker, aged 41, fell 11 feet through an unprotected loft hatch while reroofing a house. He suffered life-changing injuries. The company had failed to suitably plan the work at height; had not ensured adequate measures were in place to prevent falls; and had not provided competent supervision.
Could I be blamed?
Our clients frequently blame themselves for what happened, but in the majority of cases they are not at all liable. Usually, workplace accidents and injuries would have been avoided if the employer had adequately complied with all their health and safety duties and responsibilities.
The most important thing is not to assume you were to blame. Discuss what happened with our team as early as possible and we will endeavour to put your mind at rest and hold the employer solely responsible for your injuries.
How can I claim compensation?
We will ask you for details about what happened and any witnesses. We will also ask you for any photographs and sketches of the accident site, CCTV, witness contact details and the employer’s accident log book entry. Please don’t worry, if you do not have these details as we seek to obtain these from your employer.
If your claim progresses, we will arrange for expert medical evidence which will be needed. In the event you were involved in an accident at work after falling from height, please contact us whereupon we will provide you with expert advice in relation to your claim under a no win no fee.
How we can help
In the event you or a family member have been injured after falling from a height, please contact us and we will provide you with expert advice in relation to your claim under a no win no fee.
Please contact David Lydon at David.lydon@mfgsolicitors.com, or on telephone number 0121 236 7388.