We are personal injury solicitors specialising in claiming compensation for clients injured by needles & syringes. Catherine Smith has experience with these types of injuries, and introduces our services in this short video.

Read more about needlestick injuries below, or use our free legal advice service opposite to ask us a question or to get started making a claim.

Claim For Needlestick / Sharps Injuries

'Needlestick' injuries (also known as sharps injuries) are skin puncture wounds normally caused by hypodermic syringes, though they may also be caused by sharp medical implements such as scalpels. The main danger such injuries pose is the risk of infection from blood-borne viruses including Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. Needlestick injuries most commonly affect those working in the medical profession, though other occupations are also at risk from accidental contact with discarded syringes. It is estimated that between 65,000 and 80,000 needlestick injuries occur annually within the NHS, making them the second most common injury type among NHS staff.

Find Out More About: Suing The NHS For A Needlestick Injury

The Dangers Of Discarded Syringes

28 million hypodermic syringes are provided by care services to drug users each year, and are often discarded in streets, parks and other communal areas. It is estimated that up to 10% of these are likely to be infected with either Hepatitis B or C. Apart from the physical wound itself, and its potential ramifications, those affected by needlestick injuries are likely to suffer intense mental stress and trauma while awaiting the results of blood tests. Claims for compensation following an accidental needlestick injury will reflect all these physical and psychological factors, as well as loss of income for time off work, the cost of medical treatment, and other related financial losses.

The Benefits Of Using A Firm Of No Win No Fee Solicitors

Needles In The Medical Profession

In a medical context, needlestick injuries may result from syringes being disposed of in plastic refuse bags, rather than in reinforced 'sharps bins'. They also common when medical professionals seek to recap hypodermic needles. There have been calls for the introduction of syringes with retractable needles in the NHS, with evidence showing they may reduce needlestick injuries by up to 70%.

Discarded Needles In Public Places

Discarded syringes pose a threat no various non-medical professionals including construction workers, refuse collectors and sanitation workers. Those engaged in community service may also come into contact with syringes while working in public areas. Finally, infected syringes may be encountered by police, prison staff and social workers, who must deal with drug users regularly in the course of their employment.

Legal Responsibilities Of Employers & Property Owners

Employers and property owners owe a duty of care to their workforce and visitors, to prevent reasonably foreseeable injuries on their property. Where it is impossible to altogether eliminate the risk of needlestick injuries, protective equipment such as heavy-duty gloves and steel-capped boots must be provided. Those who cannot avoid contact with discarded syringes should receive safety training with regard to handling and disposal. Employers must provide both safe working premises and a safe system of work. Where they have failed in this duty of care, an injured person should consult a specialist solicitor with a view to seeking damages.

Needlestick Injury Compensation