Office safety: Worker loses case after accident

21/02/2012

The Circuit Civil Court has dismissed a case involving a worker who fell off her office chair and was suing for €38,000 in damages.

Karen O’Toole (43), of Eastham Court, Bettystown, Co Meath, had claimed that on January 12, 2009 she had been attending a meeting at her workplace, Sonopress Ireland Ltd, when the accident happened.

Ms. O’Toole said that she had been sitting in a chair during the meeting when she attempted to pull herself forward on it.  She said it was then that the chair gave way from under her and that she fell, breaking her wrist in the process.  The court was told that the chair had a loose caster some days previous and that this had been adjusted prior to the incident.

Barrister Conor Kearney, for Sonopress Ireland Ltd, told the court that at no stage had the company been informed of a defect in the chair. Additionally, the chair had been examined by an expert who determined that there were no defects present.

Ms. O’Toole sued her employers for negligence, however Judge Linnane said there had not been any evidence produced showing a defect or fault in the chair.  The case was dismissed.

Source: Irish Independent

Although this case was unsuccessful, it should act as a reminder to employers that unless office furniture is fit for purpose and maintained in a safe condition, the employer is open to litigation in the event of an accident.  Employers need to have proper systems in place to ensure office equipment is checked and that good recording keeping is in place and can be produced when needed.

Business Safety provide complete office safety services. To find out how we can help you manage office health and safety risks in your office, call Business Safety on 0818 333 121, Email Us or use the form above.

Office safety: Worker loses case after accident

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