Case Study - Farming Accident

Our client with over 40 years experience in the farming industry sustained an injury at work when he was instructed to prepare the milking parlour for cattle. This involved lowering temporary metal gates held up with baling twine in order that they could be moved with a telehandler.

Our client had successfully lowered three gates and upon lowering the fourth gate, the baling twine snapped resulting in the gate falling onto them and fracturing his ankle.

The baling twine was in a poor condition and should not have snapped of its own accord.

This case clearly demonstrates how accidents can happen even to the most experienced if the employer fails to ensure a safe working environment for its employees. 

Employers have a duty of care to their employees in ensuring equipment is in good working order, sufficient risk assessments are in place and adequate training is provided to all employees, regardless of their employment background.

Our client pursued a claim for damages and we negotiated a successful settlement on behalf of our client.