Compensation for Man Injured by Falling Scaffolding at Work

Injury at work caused by falling scaffolding

A Sheffield labourer has been awarded compensation of £19,000 after being injured at work when a piece of scaffolding that was being erected fell three storeys, hitting him in the face.

Neil Ringrose, 42, from Lindsay Avenue, Sheffield was working for Rowland Scaffold Company Ltd of Attercliffe Road as a labourer at a Woolworths Store in Redcar when the incident occurred.

David Urpeth, a Partner at law firm Irwin Mitchell represented Mr Ringrose. He said: “A sway brace fell from the scaffolding and caused serious injuries including displaced fractures of the left cheekbone, a tear in the retina of his left eye and lacerations. He has also suffered psychologically as a result of the incident.”

After sustaining the injuries Mr Ringrose had to undergo surgery to treat the fractures and laser treatment to repair the tear. He said: “Since it happened I have some double vision, I have scars on my face and suffer from numbness in my cheek and upper lip.

“The brace weighed about 25lbs and hit me directly in the face. The results were agonising and I am still recovering from it.”

Mr Urpeth added: “Employers need to ensure that steps are taken to prevent employees from being struck by falling objects. On this occasion, failure to do so had serious consequences for Mr Ringrose.”