Introduction
Back injuries are one of the most common workplace accidents in England and Wales. They can range from minor muscle strains to slipped discs and long-term spinal damage. If your injury was caused by employer negligence, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This page explains what back injuries involve, eligibility to claim, evidence that helps, and how much you might receive.
At a glance
- Back injuries may result from lifting, falls, repetitive strain or unsafe workstations.
- Employers must provide manual handling training, ergonomic equipment and safe systems of work.
- Compensation can include pain and suffering, physiotherapy, lost earnings and long-term care costs.
- You usually have three years from the accident or diagnosis to start a claim.
What is a back injury at work?
A back injury is any harm affecting the muscles, ligaments, discs, or bones of the spine. These injuries can have a major effect on mobility and ability to work. Common types include:
- Muscle strains and sprains – often from heavy lifting or awkward movements.
- Slipped or herniated discs – causing nerve compression and severe pain.
- Fractures – from falls from height or being struck by objects.
- Chronic conditions – such as repetitive strain or poor workstation setup.
- Spinal cord injuries – the most serious, sometimes leading to paralysis.
See NHS: Back pain for medical guidance.
Examples of back injuries and causes
| Type of injury | Common workplace causes | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle strain | Heavy lifting without training, awkward posture | Short-term pain, time off work, physiotherapy required |
| Slipped disc | Repetitive lifting, twisting, poor seating | Nerve pain, restricted movement, long recovery |
| Fractured vertebrae | Falls from ladders or scaffolding, falling objects | Severe pain, possible surgery, long-term impairment |
| Chronic back pain | Prolonged poor posture at desks, repetitive strain | Ongoing pain, reduced quality of life, workplace adjustments needed |
| Spinal cord injury | Serious falls, machinery accidents, vehicle collisions | Permanent disability, mobility issues, lifelong care |
Am I eligible to claim?
You may be eligible if:
- Your back injury occurred at work in the last three years, or you only recently realised it was linked to work, and
- Your employer failed to provide proper training, equipment, or safe working conditions, and
- Medical evidence confirms the link between your injury and workplace activities.
Not sure? Start with Do I have a claim and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation covers two areas:
- General damages: for pain, suffering and loss of amenity. Awards range from minor soft tissue injuries to severe spinal damage, assessed using the Judicial College Guidelines.
- Special damages: financial losses such as physiotherapy costs, surgery, medication, travel expenses, lost earnings, future loss of earnings and care costs.
Keep payslips, invoices and medical records to support your claim.
When is my employer responsible?
Employers have legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. They must:
- Provide proper manual handling training and equipment.
- Carry out risk assessments for lifting, falls and workstation ergonomics.
- Maintain safe workplaces, floors and machinery.
- Provide suitable seating and display screen equipment assessments.
Neglecting these duties may make them liable. For lifting accidents, see HSE: Manual handling.
Evidence that strengthens a claim
- GP or hospital records confirming diagnosis and treatment.
- Accident book entries and incident reports.
- Photographs of the accident location or faulty equipment.
- Workstation assessments and risk assessments.
- Witness statements from colleagues.
Time limits for back injury claims
You usually have three years from the accident date or the date you first realised the injury was linked to work. Exceptions apply if you were under 18 or lack capacity. Read more in time limits for claims.
FAQs
What if I had a previous back problem?
You may still claim if work made your condition worse. See claims involving pre-existing conditions.
Do I need to attend a medical appointment?
Yes. An independent medical expert will assess your injury and future outlook. See What happens at a medical appointment.
Can I claim if I did not take time off work?
Yes. Even without absence, compensation may be possible. See Can I claim if I didn’t take time off?.
Next steps
If you suffered a back injury at work, you may be entitled to benefits and compensation. See benefits after a workplace accident and speak with a solicitor to start your claim.
Our work injury advisors will:
- Offer free, impartial advice
- Explain how No Win, No Fee works
- Recommend the right solicitor
External references
- HSE: Back pain at work - how employers must manage manual handling and reduce risk of back injury.
- NHS: Back pain - causes, self-care and when to get medical help.
- HSE: Manual handling at work – brief guide (INDG143) - employer legal duties and safe handling methods.
- NHS Employers: MSK health in the workplace - how workplaces can prevent long-term back injuries.
- MSK Dorset NHS: Low back pain management - treatment and coping strategies when back pain persists.
About the author
Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.
Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon