With peak season pressures and constant media coverage of conditions in distribution centres, the risks faced by warehouse and delivery workers are under the spotlight.

One issue often overlooked is the impact of poor temperature control in large, unheated warehouses or refrigerated environments. Cold-related injuries can have serious consequences and if your employer has failed in their legal duties, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

Why Temperature Control Matters in Warehouses

Warehouses and distribution centres are the backbone of the delivery sector, especially during busy periods like Christmas. But when these spaces are poorly heated or involve prolonged exposure to cold, workers can suffer injuries such as:

  • Frostnip: early-stage cold damage to skin and tissue.
  • Chilblains: painful inflammation caused by repeated exposure to cold and damp.
  • Exacerbation of Raynaud’s disease: a condition where blood flow to extremities is restricted, worsened by cold environments.

These injuries are not only uncomfortable; they can lead to long-term health problems and time off work.

Employer Duties Under Health and Safety Law

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers in England and Wales have a legal duty to protect employees from foreseeable risks. This includes:

  • Maintaining a safe working environment which means controlling temperature were this is reasonably practicable.
  • Providing suitable protective equipment such as thermal gloves, insulated clothing, and warm rest areas.
  • Conducting risk assessments identifying hazards like cold exposure and taking steps to minimise them.

Failure to meet these obligations can amount to negligence, giving you the right to seek compensation for any injury or illness caused.

Can You Claim Compensation?

If you’ve suffered frostnip, chilblains, or worsening of Raynaud’s disease because your employer failed to provide adequate heating or protective measures, you may have a valid claim. Compensation can cover:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of earnings
  • Medical expenses
  • Future care needs

Claims are assessed on the evidence of employer negligence and the impact on your health and livelihood.

No Win, No Fee – Making It Accessible

We understand that the thought of legal costs can be daunting. That’s why Ison Harrison offers no win, no fee funding for personal injury claims. This means:

  • No upfront costs
  • No financial risk if your claim is unsuccessful
  • If successful we take a pre-agreed percentage of recovered compensation
  • Expert representation from trusted solicitors

Our team has decades of experience helping injured workers secure the compensation they deserve.

Take Action Today

Cold-related injuries in warehouses and delivery environments are preventable. If your employer has failed to protect you, don’t suffer in silence. You have rights and we are here to help you enforce them.

Contact Ison Harrison’s personal injury team today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us on 0113 284 5000 or email pi@isonharrison.co.uk.