If an individual is injured as a direct result of poor practice or incompetence of an employee, there may be legal consequences.

Each situation is different, with the circumstances and level of injury needing to be investigated. In some circumstances the injured individual may wish to sue the organisation.It is best practice to ensure that you have the knowledge and competence to complete a task, before you start it.Your manager is responsible for checking your knowledge and competence.

Your employer has a legal duty to ensure anyone who becomes ill or is injured at work receives appropriate immediate attention. 

This relates to employees and anyone else in the workplace, including the people being supported.

Emergency procedures must be in place so you know how to manage the situations that may arise. Being aware of what to do can help save people’s lives, reduce the risk of injury and the impact of injury.

Don’t let this be you!

If you do not follow your employer’s agreed ways of working and the law, you could be subject to an investigation which could result in you being dismissed from your job.

Care Quality Commission (CQC)

Your employer is regulated by the Care Quality Commission. If your employer is found to be negligent or engaging in poor practice, it will be subject to a “Requires Improvement” warning notice, possibly with a fine. If the required action stated by CQC is not taken to remedy the situation, your employer could ultimately be closed down.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

For company owners, the consequences of being found guilty of health and safety errors can include imprisonment in the most serious cases, as well as disqualification as a company director for up to 15 years. 

HSE fines of up to £20,000 are common, and in cases of serious negligence they can be unlimited.