Last Updated on May 29, 2025 by tanya

The 10 Most Broken Bones in the Workplace

 

 Are You Entitled To Claim Compensation?

Accidents at work are unfortunately more common than many people realise and here we look at the 10 most broken bones in the workplace.  Whether due to falls, collisions, or the improper use of machinery, injuries sustained in the workplace can have long-lasting consequences.

Among these injuries, bone fractures can be particularly serious. This is because they often require lengthy recovery periods, medical treatment, and time off work.

However, if you have been injured while at work, you may be eligible for compensation if your employer was negligent which led to your injury. So, if you want to find out more about filing a personal injury claim, contact us today.

Our First Personal Injury team works with highly experienced lawyers who will assess your case and who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, so there’s no financial risk to you.

 

Here Are The 10 Most Broken Bones

1.Wrist (Radius/Ulna Fractures)

The wrist is one of the most commonly broken bones in workplace accidents, particularly due to slips, trips, and falls. The wrist tends to absorb the impact when someone instinctively puts their hands out to break a fall.

However, if your fall occurred due to a wet floor, uneven surface, or poorly maintained walkway and your employer failed to take preventative action, you may be entitled to compensation.

 

2. Ankle

Ankle fractures often occur in environments where walking surfaces are uneven, slippery, or cluttered. Warehouses, construction sites, and even offices with trailing wires pose risks for a trip or fall.

Employers are legally required to maintain a safe working environment. If negligence, such as failing to clean up a spill or secure loose cables, led to your injury, you may have grounds to file a claim.

 

3. Finger and Hand Bones (Phalanges/Metacarpals)

Broken fingers and hands are common in roles involving machinery, manual labour, or heavy lifting. Crush injuries, caught-in machines, and mishandled tools are typical culprits.

If there has been inadequate training, lack of protective gloves, or malfunctioning equipment, it may point to employer negligence. As a result, this may open the door for a personal injury claim.

 

4. Arm (Humerus or Radius/Ulna)

Falls from ladders, scaffolding, or other height-related tasks can cause severe arm broken arms. These are particularly common in construction and maintenance work.

If the proper safety measures, such as harnesses, guardrails, or safe ladder practices, were not implemented, you may be able to pursue compensation.

 

5. Collarbone (Clavicle)

Clavicle fractures typically happen during falls or when heavy objects fall onto the worker’s shoulder. The injury is both painful and debilitating, often requiring immobilisation.

Employers should always ensure that workers are not exposed to risks from falling objects. Lack of protective equipment, such as hard hats or poor workplace organisation may enable you to start a personal injury claim.

 

6. Ribs

Broken ribs often result from falls, vehicle accidents (especially in logistics or driving roles), or being struck by objects. While they usually heal on their own, they can be very painful and affect breathing and mobility.

If your injury occurred due to unsafe practices or lack of risk assessment, especially in vehicle-related roles, you could have a viable claim.

 

7. Hip or Pelvis

These injuries are more common among older workers but can happen to anyone. This type of injury may happen especially in falls from heights or due to unsecured stairwells or platforms. They are severe and may require surgery and rehabilitation.

Potential negligence indicators may include inadequate guardrails, failure to use safety harnesses, or not following health and safety regulations.

 

8. Leg (Femur/Tibia/Fibula)

A broken leg may result from a fall, struck-by incident, or a machine accident. These injuries can have long recovery times and may involve permanent damage in severe cases.

You may be entitled to claim compensation if heavy machinery was used without proper training or if there were hazards present that the employer failed to address.

 

9. Foot and Toe Bones

Often injured by dropped tools or machinery, or through trips and falls, foot and toe breaks are frequent in warehouses, factories, and construction zones.

The lack of protective footwear, unlabelled hazards, or poor manual handling practices can provide a basis for a personal injury claim.

 

10. Spine or Vertebrae

Spinal fractures are the most serious on this list and can lead to severe consequences. They are typically associated with falls from height or severe vehicle accidents.

Employers must follow strict safety protocols for working at height. If these were breached or proper PPE wasn’t supplied, you may want to seek compensation.

 

When Can You Claim Personal Injury Compensation?

You may be entitled to claim compensation if the injury:

 

• Happened in the course of your employment
• Was caused (fully or partly) by employer negligence or unsafe working conditions
• Occurred within the last three years which is the standard time limit in which to apply.
• The negligence or working conditions directly caused the injury which resulted in pain, financial loss, or a change to your quality of life

The employer’s legal duty to ensure health and safety for workers includes providing:

 

• A safe working environment
• Suitable training and supervision
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Properly maintained equipment and machinery
• Adequate risk assessments

 

If they breach any of these responsibilities and that breach leads to an injury, you may be eligible for compensation.

 

How to Start a Personal Injury Claim

Here’s how to begin the process:

 

1. Seek Medical Attention

Even if the fracture seems minor, get medical documentation. This is key evidence in your personal injury claim.

 

2. Report the Incident

Inform your employer and ensure the incident is recorded in the company’s accident book.

 

3. Gather Evidence

Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and collect witness details if possible. Make sure you keep any correspondence or safety reports.

 

4. Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor

Choose a solicitor who specialises in workplace injuries. A No Win, No Fee agreement means you won’t pay if your claim is unsuccessful.

 

 What Does Compensation Cover:

Compensation may cover:

 

• General damages (pain, suffering)
• Special damages (loss of earnings, medical costs, travel expenses)
• Long-term care or rehabilitation if necessary

 

Get In Touch Today

Breaking a bone in the workplace is not only a distressing and painful accident, but may also significantly impact your livelihood and quality of life. If you’ve broken a bone at work and suspect employer negligence, your next step is to contact us.

We specialise in helping individuals affected by workplace negligence. We work with expert lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, ensuring you get the support you need without financial risk. Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation.