UAE: Dh500,000 compensation for worker after bricks fell on him

A construction worker of Asian origin, 38, who was grievously injured after bricks fell on him at a construction site, has been awarded Dh500, 000 in compensation for the accident.

The worker has suffered permanent disability following the accident. His walking ability has been impaired at least 80 per cent and he is confined to a wheelchair. He also suffered a 20 per cent disability in the pelvis.

Court documents revealed that he was working at the construction site when bricks fell accidentally on him. He sustained severe wounds and multiple fractures on both his legs.

Investigations ascertained that the company was negligent, as they had failed to put in place safety mechanisms at the site, which caused the accident.

Earlier, the Abu Dhabi Criminal Court of First Instance had fined the firm Dh10,000 and ordered it to pay Dh200,000 to the worker as blood money for his disability.

Later, the worker filed a civil lawsuit against the firm and demanded Dh600,000 as compensation.

The victim, who is the sole breadwinner for his family, also suffered job loss because the company terminated his contract due to his permanent disability.

The company denied any wrongdoing and claimed that his responsibility was with the outsourcing firm from where he was hired.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• Dubai
• Abu Dhabi