Amputee secures compensation from ex-employer
A man who suffered serious injuries to his leg has secured a payout from his former employer.
William Edge was awarded the money in an out-of-court settlement and although the precise amount has not been disclosed, it is said to be substantial.
The 64-year-old was working as a labourer for building firm Ardmore Construction when the accident happened.
His role involved locking up the construction site at the end of the working day, including a basement area which was accessed by a ladder fixed to a crane base.
He was often alone on the site when performing this duty and had on several occasions asked to be accompanied or provided with a two-way radio. However, his requests had been ignored.
In September 2005, Ms Edge lost his grip on the ladder - which was wet - while locking up and fell to the concrete beneath him.
His ankle broke and he was forced to shout for help for 20 minutes before a passerby heard him.
He has had to have eight operations as a result of the damage he suffered and, in January 2007, the decision was made to amputate his leg below the knee.
According to figures produced by the Health and Safety Executive, six million working days were lost due to injury in 2007-08.
