Last Updated on April 23, 2025 by tanya

Potential Risks and Injuries for Market Workers

 

Top Hazards and Claiming Compensation For an Injury

 

Working in a market can be lively and fun, but there are a unique set of potential risks and injuries for market workers. Whether it’s an open-air street market, a farmer’s market or indoor market hall, there are daily hazards to avoid.

However, whether you’re employed or self-employed in a market and have been injured, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim. This may be because of lifting heavy goods, falling while navigating between stalls, or dealing with unpredictable weather conditions.

 

At First Personal Injury, we can guide you regarding the claims process. We partner with highly experienced lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can advise whether you have a valid claim for compensation at no cost to you.

 

Common Workplace Hazards in Markets

Markets tend to be fast-paced environments which combine manual labour, public interaction, and environmental exposure. While this makes for an vibrant workplace, it also increases the potential risks and injuries for market workers.

 

Manual Handling and Lifting Injuries

Market workers regularly lift, carry, and move heavy boxes of produce, equipment, or merchandise. Without proper lifting techniques or support, this can lead to:

 

• Back injuries
• Muscle strains
• Hernias
• Joint issues

Employers are required to provide manual handling training and ensure that you are not lifting beyond their physical capabilities.

 

Slips, Trips, and Falls

There is constant movement of people, goods, and vehicles, and often uneven ground or wet surfaces. So, there is an heightened risks of slips and trips especially in outdoor markets. Common causes include:

 

• Loose cables
• Wet patches from rain or spilled liquids
• Poor lighting
• Uneven pavement or loose flooring

Injuries from such incidents may range from bruises and sprains to broken bones or even head trauma.

 

Cuts and Lacerations

Your role may involve working with sharp tools. This can include knives for cutting produce, box cutters, or broken glass from dropped goods. Cuts can lead to:

 

• Infection
• Blood loss
• Permanent scarring

Proper safety equipment and training are crucial to prevent these types of injuries.

 

Crush Injuries and Falling Objects

In crowded markets, it’s easy for heavy items to be knocked over, shelves to tip, or pallets to collapse. Crush injuries or being struck by falling objects can result in serious harm, including:

 

• Broken bones
• Concussions
• Internal injuries

The paths and walkways in a market should be kept clear.

 

Heat and Cold Exposure

Outdoor workers are exposed to the elements. In the winter, there is an increased risk of hypothermia. Meanwhile in the summer, heatstroke and dehydration are concerns. Inadequate shelter or rest breaks can worsen these issues.

 

Vehicle-Related Injuries

Before the market opening and after shutting up, forklifts, delivery vans, and other market-related vehicles can pose hazards as goods are unpacked and repacked. You may be at risk of:

 

• Collision injuries
• Crush injuries
• Trip hazards from loading ramps

Training and proper signage are key preventive measures.

 

Violence and Aggression

Unfortunately, market workers may be faced with aggression, theft, or violence. This can result in physical assault-related injuries.

 

If You’re Employed As a Market Worker

If you are employed to work in a market, whether full-time, part-time, temporary, you are entitled to work in a safe environment. Your employer should :

 

• Provide proper training
• Maintain safe equipment and premises
• Offer protective gear if necessary

If they fail in this duty and you’re injured as a result, you could be entitled to make a personal injury claim.

 

What If You’re Self-Employed?

Many market workers are self-employed traders. Even then, you may still have grounds for a claim if:

 

• You were injured due to negligence by another trader or market management
• Unsafe premises or conditions contributed to your injury
• Equipment provided by someone else was faulty

Market operators are required to ensure safety for all users of the market space.

 

When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?

 

To file a personal injury claim, consider the following criteria:

 

The Injury Occurred Within the Last Three Years

In most cases, you must start your claim within three years from the date of the injury. Or, the date you first became aware of it e.g. such as a diagnosed repetitive strain injury).

 

Someone Else Was At Fault

You’ll need to prove that the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. However, this is usually your employer or another worker. This could include:

 

• Failure to maintain safety protocols
• Lack of training or supervision
• Unsafe storage of materials

 

The Incident Caused Harm

You must demonstrate that the incident which resulted in your injury is directly linked to the actual harm you have suffered.

 

What Evidence Do You Need?

To support your claim, gather as much evidence as possible, including:

 

• Photographs of the scene and your injury
• Medical records and doctor’s reports
• Witness statements
• Incident reports

It’s also recommended that you keep a record of your symptoms and how the injury has impacted your work capability, as well as daily life.

 

What Can You Claim For?

A successful personal injury claim typically includes compensation for:

 

General Damages: Pain, suffering, and loss of amenity

Special Damages: Financial losses which may include lost wages, medical expenses, travel costs and future care needs

 

How to Start the Claims Process

If you believe you have a valid claim, it is essential that you should consult with a personal injury lawyer.

At First Personal Injury, we work with highly experienced personal injury lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Our expert team will guide you through the claims process to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or complete our online contact form.