Workplace accidents down as employment falls

Workplace accident claims fell slightly this year reflecting rising unemployment, it was claimed today.

In the first nine months of the year the figure dropped 3% on the same period in 2008, according to InjuriesBoard.ie

However, the number of new personal injuries cases dealt with by the semi-state body jumped 4%.

Patricia Byron, chief executive, said: “It is probably a reflection of the current economic climate that workplace accident claims in this period are down 3% on the same period last year.”

In the first six months of the year €105m was given out for 4,402 personal injury claims, with the average payout totalling €23,932.

The highest sum was €493,902 and the lowest €1,000.

Crashes accounted for 73% of awards, public liability cases 16% and accidents in the workplace around 11%.