Workplace Injury Lawyers Secure Settlement To Fund Rope Technician’s Ongoing Rehabilitation

A construction worker seriously injured when he fell eight metres at work has spoken of his determination to look to the future after lawyers secured him a settlement to fund his ongoing recovery.

Kyle Hunt, of Orpington, suffered a fractured spine as well as broken ankles and wrists when he fell from the third floor of a construction site in Bank Street, Canary Wharf. Kyle, a rope technician, was removing netting when clamps he was attached to, known as beam gliders, slid off a gap in the steel beam he was unaware of. 

The 37-year-old was taken to Royal London Hospital where surgeons performed several operations. Kyle, originally from Northern Ireland, was transferred to hospital in Londonderry and had to be cared for by his parents for nearly two years. 

Workplace injury lawyers secure settlement following Canary Wharf fall

Following the incident in July 2017 he instructed specialist workplace injury lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate.  

His employer, Over The Edge Rope Access and Safety Netting Ltd, which was  responsible for his safety at work, agreed to a £900,000 settlement in connection with Kyle’s injuries. 

Expert Opinion

“This is a truly devastating case that clearly highlights the lasting consequences that accidents at work can have.

“Four years on from the incident Kyle continues to suffer with the physical and psychological toll of his injuries.

“While nothing will ever change what has happened, we’re pleased to have secure Kyle his settlement which will ensure that he can access vital rehabilitation to help him move forward with his life.

“However, we would also urge employers in the construction industry to learn lessons from these types of cases. The safety of workers must always come first in any given situation.” Natasha Fairs - Senior Associate Solicitor

Rope technician suffers spinal fractures in workplace fall

Recalling the incident Kyle said: “I was asked to remove safety nets, so I was wearing full equipment and used three beam gliders to move along the steel. Many rope access technicians would only use two, but I wanted a third for added security. 

“I had travelled across seven beams when two gliders came away from the steel. The third then followed and I was hanging by my hands. As I was carrying additional equipment, I knew I wouldn’t be able to hold on. All I could do was brace myself for the fall.”

Kyle was taken to Royal London Hospital and informed that he had multiple serious injuries. All the fractures required surgery and he was left in a lot of pain due to nerve damage. He was transferred to another hospital and then in August 2017 was transported 15 hours via road and ferry to hospital in Northern Ireland. He spent a further two weeks in hospital before being discharged to his parent’s house.  

He recalls: “I was bedbound and reliant on my mum and dad for everything. I was still in incredible pain and couldn’t even feed myself. It was a very difficult time.

“As the months went by, I realised that I was facing a long recovery and would need support for months and years to come. This made me suffer with an incredibly low mood.”

Worker making progress with rehab issues health and safety plea

Kyle eventually moved back to London in July 2019. While he continues to endure pain across his wrists, spine and feet, he has managed to start doing some jobs around the house including vacuuming. 

He said: “The past few years have undoubtedly been the most difficult of my life and I still struggle in many ways. I genuinely loved my work, but at this point it is hard to see how I could return to meaningful employment.

“There have been many tough times, but this settlement is very welcomed. Knowing that I will be able to continue to access vital support is a huge weight off my shoulders and I just want to continue getting better for myself and my family. 

“I also hope that speaking about my experiences highlights the importance of workplace safety and ensures no one else faces what I have.”

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in helping people injured at work at our dedicated workplace injury section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.