Accidents can happen!
The absolutely worst claims I have ever had to deal with in 40 years are always those that involve serious injury to employees.
They are serious for the employee who might face serious life changing injuries and a significant period where they can’t work, or may even die, with the awful consequences for the family and dependents.
Its terrible for the business that now has to deal with the implications. Did they do everything they could do, was their health and safety system robust, were all the correct risk assessments in place and communicated to employees, will the H&S Executive or local authority carry out an in depth investigation and so on…..
Sometimes, the accident is the result of a simple accident that no one could have foreseen or more often a careless or thoughtless action by the employee or others working with them, either way whatever happens, compensation of some sought will be due to the employee or their family and that is where employers liability insurance comes into force.
Whilst the implications in disruption, time and resources re considerable for the employer, failure to have the correct liability cover in force can result in fines of up to £2,500 per day and in serious situations, up to 6 months in jail for the directors or principals in the business.
So when does the law make Employers Liability Insurance a legal requirement?
Under the regulations of the “1969 Employers Liability Compulsory Insurance Act” and subsequent statutory regulations Employers Liability cover must be in force where:
A business has any employees and they are employed for as little as 1 minute of 1 day in any year! This includes unpaid volunteers, interns and the like, effectively anyone working in and for a business. This also includes directors or trustees in a limited company or charity. The only exclusions for businesses are:
Single Director Limited Companies with no other employees
Unincorporated businesses where there are principals / partners and no other employees
If you are unsure whether or not you need this cover then seek professional advice or contact us for a completely free assessment of your position, we can set your mind at rest and provide the correct cover for your situation should you need it.
Just call 02920 470375 or email info@severnbay.com
After all no one goes to work to be injured or killed and no business owner wants to end up in jail.
