Introduction
Construction sites are among the most hazardous workplaces in the UK. If you have been injured while working on a building site, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This page explains the most common causes of building site accidents, what to do after an injury, and how to start a claim. It also signposts to detailed guides for more information.
At a glance
- Around 124,000 workers were injured in construction between 2021/22 and 2023/24, a rate of 390 injuries per 100,000 workers (Source: WAAC Analysis of the HSE LFS data published 12/2024)
- Most construction site injuries are caused by slips, trips, falls, lifting accidents and being struck by vehicles or machinery.
- You can usually claim if you were injured in the last 3 years and someone else was to blame.
- Compensation can cover lost earnings, medical costs and future losses.
- Most building site claims are pursued on a No Win, No Fee basis.
On building sites, evidence disappears fast - tidied debris, moved scaffolds and so on. Report the accident, photograph the scene and your PPE, and get witness names. It can make your claim.
John Kushnick
Legal Operations Director (NAL)
Our experience helping injured workers
We have assisted employed, self-employed and contract workers across the construction industry, including:
- Building construction – new builds, repairs, additions and alterations
- Civil engineering – road and railway construction, utilities and infrastructure
- Trades – electricians, plumbers, joiners, plasterers, painters, bricklayers and glaziers
Common causes of accidents and injuries
According to HSE data, more than half of construction injuries result from slips, trips and falls. Lifting and handling accidents are the second most common cause of injury. Other frequent causes include:
- Being struck by moving vehicles or machinery
- Injuries from defective tools or equipment
- Falls from height
These accidents often cause back and neck injuries, fractures, head injuries, dislocations, amputations and burns.
Occupational disease and building sites
Construction workers face higher risks of long-term illnesses, such as:
- Respiratory diseases caused by dust, asbestos and silica
- Hearing loss, tinnitus and acoustic shock
- Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), vibration white finger (VWF) and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)
What should I do after an accident?
Taking the right steps after a construction site accident will protect your health and your right to claim compensation:
- Seek medical help: Always get treatment and ensure your injuries are recorded.
- Record the accident: Add details to the site accident book and gather witness information.
- Report it: Inform the site manager or supervisor as soon as possible.
- Keep evidence: Take photos of the scene, keep receipts and make notes about your symptoms.
Read more: Reporting a work accident | Gathering evidence after a work injury
Can I claim injury compensation?
If you were injured in the last three years and someone else was responsible, you may be able to claim. This applies whether you are an employee, agency worker or self-employed contractor.
Employers can also be liable for accidents caused by co-workers under the principle of vicarious liability.
Read more: Am I eligible to claim?
Employment status and building site accident claims
Whether you’re on site with a principal contractor or working for a subcontractor, your right to claim for a building site injury usually doesn’t depend on your contract type. See how employment status affects your claim:
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation is calculated by adding Special and General damages together. Special damages include lost income, medical expenses and travel costs. General damages compensate for pain, suffering and loss of amenity.
Use our calculator to get an estimate of what you could receive:
Making a No Win, No Fee claim
Most building site claims are made on a No Win, No Fee basis. You will sign a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), which sets out the solicitor’s terms and success fee. If you win your claim, the success fee is deducted from your compensation. If you lose, you pay nothing.
Read more: No Win, No Fee claims explained
Real-world example
A joiner fell from poorly secured scaffolding and suffered a fractured pelvis. Although the employer initially denied liability, witness evidence and photographs proved the scaffolding was unsafe. The claim settled on a No Win, No Fee basis, covering his lost income and rehabilitation costs.
FAQs
What regulations cover construction site safety?
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) set out duties for employers, contractors, designers and workers. These rules are designed to prevent accidents and protect workers. For more detail, see our page on CDM Regulations.
Can self-employed builders make a claim?
Yes. Self-employed workers can claim if they were injured on a site where another party was responsible for health and safety.
Will claiming affect my job?
Claims are made against your employer’s liability insurance, not the employer personally. It is unlawful for your employer to dismiss you for making a genuine claim.
Have you been injured at work?
If you have been injured at work in the last 3 years, you may be able to claim financial compensation.
Find out more about making a work accident claim:
- Do you qualify?
- How much compensation could you get?
- How does No Win, No Fee work?
Read more: Work accident claim guide
One quick call can give you clarity and confidence about your options after a work accident. A specialist advisor will:
- Give free, confidential and impartial advice
- Explain clearly how No Win, No Fee works
- Connect you with the right solicitor for your case
You're under no pressure to claim. We'll get you the right advice, when you need it.
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 October 2025 by Chris Salmon
External references
- HSE: Construction health and safety - official guidance on managing risks on building sites.
- HSE: CDM Regulations 2015 - legal framework for safe construction work.
- HSE: Slips and trips at work - common causes of accidents on construction sites.
- HSE: Working at height - rules and employer duties for falls from scaffolding and ladders.
- NHS: Accidents and first aid - advice on treatment and when to seek urgent care.