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Machinist awarded £785,000 compensation for injury at work

A machinist who lost two fingers in an accident at work has been awarded £785,000 compensation.

The 29-year-old man was pulling wood through a machine saw when it kicked back. The guard failed to provide adequate protection and his left hand was taken in to the blade.

He lost the little and ring fingers, suffered a loss of the blood supply to the middle finger and lost both digital nerves to the index and middle fingers.

Afterwards, he continued to suffer intrusive flashbacks of the accident and experienced anxieties regarding the use of power saws, risks in general, when travelling as a car passenger and as a driver, and when washing knives.

He also suffered hyper-vigilance, irritability and disturbed sleep and was diagnosed as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Due to the injuries, he was unable to return to his pre-accident work. His work capabilities were limited and he was unable to perform any task that involved exposure to cold or damp conditions or that required constant use of both hands. After receiving prosthetic devices, he obtained work as a postman.

He took legal action against his former employer claiming that it was negligent in failing to maintain the workplace in an efficient state and failing to ensure that fixed guards were provided for his protection.

The company accepted liability and agreed to an out-of-court settlement of £785,000. This was to cover his pain and suffering, future loss of earnings and various other costs including an automatic vehicle and future prostheses.

Please contact us if you would like advice about making a personal injury claim.