Needlestick Injury Compensation

What Is Needlestick Injury Compensation?

A needlestick injury happens when a needle or other sharp object accidentally punctures the skin. This can be dangerous because it may expose you to infections like HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C.

If you were injured by a contaminated needle at work and your employer failed to protect you, you may be entitled to needlestick injury compensation.

Common Causes of Needlestick Injuries

Needlestick injuries usually happen in workplaces where needles or sharp tools are used. Some common causes include:

Handling used syringes without proper safety procedures
Failure to dispose of needles in sharps bins
Re-capping or incorrectly handling used needles
Inadequate protective equipment (gloves, disposal boxes)
Poor training on safe handling of needles
Medical staff rushing in emergencies

Jobs Most at Risk of Needlestick Injuries

Certain industries face a higher risk of exposure, such as:

Healthcare workers – nurses, doctors, paramedics, midwives
Hospital cleaners and porters – exposed during waste disposal
Laboratory staff – handling samples and sharp instruments
Tattoo artists and piercers – accidents during procedures
Waste disposal workers – coming into contact with discarded needles
Prison staff and police – accidental exposure to hidden needles

Risks of a Needlestick Injury

The biggest worry after a needlestick injury is the risk of infection. Some serious health conditions that can result include:

Hepatitis B – a liver infection that can become chronic
Hepatitis C – can cause long-term liver damage
HIV – a life-changing condition if contracted
Tetanus or other bacterial infections

Even if you test negative, the stress and anxiety after exposure can have a big impact on your mental health.

Symptoms to Look Out For

After a needlestick injury, you may not have immediate symptoms. But you should look for:

Redness, swelling, or pain around the puncture site
Signs of infection such as fever, fatigue, or nausea
Anxiety and stress about possible infections

Immediate medical attention is essential after any needle injury.

Who Can Claim Needlestick Injury Compensation?

You may be able to claim if:

You suffered a needlestick injury at work
Your employer failed to provide proper training or safety equipment
Sharps bins were not provided or properly used
The incident caused physical or psychological harm

Both employees and agency workers can make a claim.

How Much Compensation Can You Get for a Needlestick Injury?

The amount of needlestick injury compensation depends on:

The severity of your injury
Whether you contracted an infection
The emotional stress and anxiety caused
Time taken off work and financial losses

Typical Compensation Ranges

Minor injury, quick recovery: £1,000 – £5,000
Moderate injury with psychological impact: £5,000 – £15,000
Serious infection (e.g., Hepatitis, HIV): £20,000 – £100,000+

Employer Responsibilities for Preventing Needlestick Injuries

Employers are legally required under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) to:

Provide sharps disposal bins in workplaces
Train staff on safe handling and disposal of needles
Provide personal protective equipment (PPE)
Carry out regular risk assessments
Act quickly after an injury with medical support

If they failed in these duties, you could be entitled to compensation.

No Win, No Fee Needlestick Injury Claims

At Claims 24 Hours, we handle all needlestick injury claims on a No Win, No Fee basis.

No upfront costs
No hidden charges
You only pay if your claim is successful

This means you can claim without financial risk.

How to Make a Needlestick Injury Compensation Claim

Step 1: Free Consultation

Speak to our expert solicitors for free advice.

Step 2: Evidence Gathering

We collect medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and photos if available.

Step 3: Submitting Your Claim

We make a claim against your employer’s insurance company.

Step 4: Negotiation & Settlement

We fight to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Step 5: Payout

Once settled, your compensation is paid directly to you.

Time Limits for Needlestick Injury Claims

You usually have three years from the date of the injury, or from when you realised the injury caused harm, to make a claim.

How Long Do Needlestick Injury Claims Take?

Straightforward claims may settle within 6–9 months
Complex cases may take 12–18 months, especially if infection testing is ongoing

FAQs about Needlestick Injury Compensation

What should I do immediately after a needlestick injury?
Wash the area, cover it, and seek urgent medical advice. Report the incident to your employer.

Can I claim if I didn’t contract an infection?
Yes, compensation can be awarded for the anxiety and stress caused, even if no infection develops.

Can agency staff or contractors make a claim?
Yes, if the injury happened in your workplace, you are still protected by health and safety laws.

What if I was partly responsible?
You may still claim. Your compensation may be reduced depending on your share of responsibility.

Will my employer be angry if I claim?
No. Claims are made against their insurance, and it is illegal to dismiss someone for making a claim.

Why Choose Claims 24 Hours?

Free advice with no obligation
Specialist solicitors in workplace injury claims
24/7 support whenever you need us
No Win, No Fee promise
A trusted team with proven results

Start Your Needlestick Injury Compensation Claim Today

If you suffered a needlestick injury at work, you deserve help and justice. At Claims 24 Hours, we will guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.