Workplace slips, trips and falls 'shatter workers' lives'

Accidents suffered by workers can have serious consequences on their quality of life, it has been claimed.

According to the Health and Safety Executive, in the north-west alone, there were 1,751 major injuries and 3,812 injuries resulting in employees having to take over three days off work during 2008-09.

Inspector at the organisation Mike Cross said: "Slips, trips and falls might sound funny, but they shatter the lives of thousands of British workers ever year."

Individuals who experience damage while at work may be entitled to claim compensation.

The HSE - which exists to minimise the risks to people's wellbeing that arise as a result of employment - estimates that the combined financial costs incurred by society as a result of accidents is around £800 million a year.

This is as a time when both firms and people are struggling financially as a result of the recession, it pointed out.