| Document ID (ISN) | 108648 |
| CIS number |
08-1191 |
| Year |
2007 |
| Convention or series no. |
HSE Research Report 552
|
| Author(s) |
Snodgrass R., Corbett E., Carter L.
Health and Safety Executive |
| Title |
Exploration of the affect [sic] of litigation culture on the attribution and reporting of slip and trip accidents |
| Bibliographic information |
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2007. viii, 63p. Illus. 2 ref. |
| Internet access |
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr552.pdf [in English]
|
| Abstract |
Due to changes in United Kingdom litigation law in recent years, lawyers have been offering a "no win no fee" service, which appears to be generating a growing tendency amongst individuals to pursue claims of negligence, even in the most frivolous of cases. Reports in the press also suggest that there are many companies willing to pay out small amounts of compensation rather than fight a more costly litigation process. Society continues to change and there is less tolerance when it comes to risk. The purpose of this work was to determine the effect of this heightened awareness, brought about by media activity, on the reporting of slip and trip accidents. This study employed both quantitative and qualitative techniques for collecting information from lawyers, insurers, and safety and health representatives, together with a survey of the general public. Findings indicate that employers are recording and reporting more accidents, both to comply with the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR, see CIS 95-1930) and as a self-defence mechanism against the threat of possible litigation. Employers are also taking more precautions with those having accidents on their premises. Findings also indicate that the general public and employees are less inhibited about reporting slip and trip accidents as they are more aware of their rights and therefore less tolerant of what they see as unfair treatment. Other findings are discussed. |
| Descriptors (primary) |
notification of occupational accidents; risk tolerance; United Kingdom; falls on the level; slippery floors; psychology and sociology; injuries; legal aspects |
| Descriptors (secondary) |
safety consciousness; responsibilities of employers; criminal liability; labour-management relations; human behaviour; report |
| Document type |
E - Books, reports, proceedings |
| Country / State or Province | United Kingdom |
| Subject(s) |
Administration, legislation
Materials handling and storage
|
| Broad subject area(s) |
Mechanical hazards, transport
|
| Browse category(ies) |
Reporting of occupational accidents
Psychological factors
Notification of accidents and diseases
Criminal liability in OSH
|
