RIDDOR

[David68]

Quick question to which I THINK I already know the answer.

Member of our staff had a suspected epileptic fit (this has not been confirmed by a doctor) and as a result fell and broke his hip.

Is this reportable under RIDDOR?

Thank you in anticipation

Dave

[Penfold]

Hi David

RIDDOR pages on HSE website states:

Not all accidents need to be reported, a RIDDOR report is required only when:

■ the accident is work-related; and
■ it results in an injury of a type which is reportable (as listed under ‘Types of reportable injuries’).

When deciding if the accident that led to the death or injury is work-related, the key issues to consider are whether the accident was related to:

■ the way the work was organised, carried out or supervised;
■ any machinery, plant, substances or equipment used for work; and
■ the condition of the site or premises where the accident happened.

If none of these factors are relevant to the incident, it is likely that a report will not be required.

[Juan Carlos]

I would not consider this RIDDOR reportable unless there is an issue with the building infrastructure that might have contributed to the injury.

[witsd]

As always with RIDDOR, rather than just trying to follow the guidance, think about why it's being reported - to determine if any of your workplace practices need to be changed by the HSE.

If nothing within your control added to the incident, then the HSE won't care, and logically, a report isn't necessary.

Having said that, do consider this situation and have a (recorded) conversation with the employee upon return to work to see if there are any reasonable steps you can take to minimise risk (obviously do not force them to do anything differently if they decline).