Mr J, a former a service engineer has received a five figure compensation payment after he sustained a rotator cuff problem to his right shoulder from his work for Coram Showers Limited. Mr J was employed by the company in February 2006.
In the course of his employment Mr J was employed to install and fit shower units. He would have to travel 50,000 miles annually installing shower units at retail and trade showrooms. Mr J would undertake all the carrying and lifting of items often working alone. The shower units would weight about 17-30 kgs. Gripping the edges of the units would require a significant span of the arms in order to lift and move them.
Several months after he started with the company he developed pain in his right shoulder and was subsequently diagnosed with a superior labrum anterposterior tear (SLAP). Mr J underwent an operation including a decompression, excision and repair to his shoulder which was followed by physiotherapy and steroid injections.
Limited. The claim was vigorously defended by the Defendant who initially denied liability.
Satinder Bains Solicitor at the Birmingham office of Irwin Mitchell who specialises in Workplace Illness who handled Mr J's claim said:
"Mr J was very skilled and loved his job. Sadly he was never warned or advised about the dangers of repetitive and forceful movements in the course of lifting and handling these shower units and received no training. His symptoms continued to affect his ability to do his job as a Service Engineer. This case highlights the importance of health and safety policies. Employers have a duty of care to their employees, which includes ensuring training is provided so their exposure to excessive levels of lifting is kept to a minimum. I am very pleased with the settlement that we recovered for Mr J, this will go along way to helping him get on with his life."