Workplace injuries involving trapped fingers, hands, or arms can be extremely painful and, in severe cases, result in crushed bones, amputations, or permanent disability. These injuries often occur in factories, construction sites, warehouses, and industrial settings, where heavy machinery, conveyor belts, and moving parts are frequently in use. However, even in office environments, doors, filing cabinets, and equipment with mechanical components can pose a risk.

Employers have a legal duty to ensure that all machinery and equipment are safe to use, properly maintained, and fitted with adequate safety guards. Failure to take these precautions can result in serious injuries and legal liability.

Common Causes of Trapped Limb Injuries

Injuries involving trapped fingers, hands, or arms are usually caused by unsafe working conditions, poor equipment design, or lack of training. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Moving machinery with exposed parts: gears, rollers, or presses can trap fingers and pull in hands or arms.
  • Unguarded conveyor belts and rotating equipment: employees working near these without safety barriers are at risk.
  • Automatic doors and heavy gates: rapidly closing doors can catch fingers or hands, causing crushing injuries.
  • Heavy materials and storage equipment: employees handling stacked goods, shelving units, or warehouse doors may suffer injuries from falling or shifting objects.
  • Lack of emergency stop mechanisms: some machinery lacks fail-safes to prevent hands or arms from being caught.
  • Failure to follow proper shutdown procedures: lockout/tagout systems are crucial when maintaining or cleaning machinery.

Employer Responsibilities Under UK Law

Employers have a legal obligation under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to prevent accidents involving trapped limbs. They must:

  • Ensure all machinery is fitted with safety guards to prevent body parts from being caught.
  • Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
    Provide proper training on the use of equipment and emergency shutdown procedures.
  • Enforce lockout/tagout procedures to prevent machines from being operated during maintenance.
  • Ensure emergency stop buttons and protective barriers are in place where necessary. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety guards, to minimise injury risks.
  • Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to serious injuries, financial penalties, and liability claims.

Steps to Take After an Injury

If you have suffered a trapped finger, hand, or arm injury at work, you should take the following steps:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention – Even minor crush injuries can lead to long-term complications.
  2. Report the accident to your employer and ensure it is recorded in the workplace accident book.
  3. Document the accident scene, including taking photographs and collecting witness statements.
  4. Identify any faulty equipment or missing safety features that contributed to the injury.
  5. Consult a solicitor to assess whether you are eligible to claim compensation.

Claiming Compensation for Workplace Injuries

If your injury was caused by faulty equipment, lack of safety measures, or employer negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

Making a Claim Can Help You Recover Losses Such As:

  • Medical and Rehabilitation Costs
    This includes expenses for hospital treatment, GP appointments, physiotherapy, counselling, and any other medical or therapeutic support needed as a result of your injury.
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses
    These may include the cost of damaged personal items (such as clothing or mobile phones), travel to and from medical appointments, parking fees, or assistance with daily living during recovery.
  • Loss of Earnings
    If your injury has caused you to take time off work—whether short-term or long-term—you may be entitled to recover lost income. This can include loss of bonuses, overtime, or future earning potential if your ability to work has been affected.
  • Pain, Suffering, and Loss of Amenity
    Compensation may also be awarded for the physical and emotional pain you’ve experienced, as well as the wider impact on your day-to-day life, hobbies, relationships, and overall quality of life.

Preventing Trapped Limb Injuries

Preventing workplace accidents involving trapped fingers, hands, or arms requires a combination of employer responsibility and employee awareness.

Employers should:

  • Ensure machinery has proper guarding and failsafe mechanisms.
  • Implement strict lockout/tagout procedures before maintenance or cleaning.
  • Provide regular training on how to operate equipment safely.
  • Inspect and maintain all machinery to prevent malfunctions.

Employees should:

  • Follow all safety guidelines when using or working near machinery.
  • Never bypass safety guards or operate machines they are not trained to use.
  • Report any faulty or missing safety equipment immediately.
  • Stay alert and avoid distractions when working with heavy machinery.

By prioritising workplace safety and proper equipment use, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of serious limb injuries. However, if you have suffered an injury due to poor safety measures or employer negligence, seeking expert legal advice can help you secure the compensation you deserve.