Abu Dhabi court orders Dh1.5 million payout for injured worker

The Abu Dhabi Family, Civil, and Administrative Court amended a previous ruling that had obligated a private contracting company to compensate one of its workers with Dh1.1 million, increasing the amount to Dh1.5 million. The case arose after the worker fell from a seven-meter-high scaffold while on duty, due to the company’s fault and negligence in failing to provide the necessary safety measures and protective equipment to safeguard him against occupational hazards and injuries.

In detail, the worker filed a lawsuit against the company where he had been employed, seeking Dh7 million in compensation for the material and moral damages he sustained. He submitted supporting documents and evidence showing that, while painting steel at one of the company’s work sites, he fell from a seven-meter scaffold, sustaining severe injuries. The incident was attributed to the company’s negligence, lack of precaution, and failure to meet professional safety standards by not providing adequate protective equipment or ensuring proper site supervision.

A criminal case was filed regarding the incident, in which the company was found guilty. The company’s appeal was dismissed both at the appellate level and by the Court of Cassation, making the judgment final. The worker, having suffered significant harm, proceeded with the civil claim.

The court explained in its reasoning that, according to the medical committee’s report, the worker is confined to a wheelchair, unable to stand independently, and suffers from spinal deformity in the upper lumbar vertebrae. The expert’s report further confirmed that his condition had stabilized as spastic paraplegia.

The worker also stated that he had no health insurance to cover his treatment costs. His injuries therefore amounted to serious bodily harm entitling him to financial compensation, including full diya (blood money) of Dh200,000, compensation for surgical procedures, physiotherapy expenses, loss of earning capacity, and additional damages.

Accordingly, the Abu Dhabi Family, Civil, and Administrative Court amended the earlier ruling, obligating the defendant company to raise the compensation to Dh1.5 million, given that the accident was caused by the company’s fault, negligence, and failure to provide adequate safety measures and protective equipment.

According to reports issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, as well as police and court records, falls from heights are among the most common workplace accidents, particularly in the construction sector. These incidents often result in serious injuries or even death. Common causes include unsafe ladders, unstable surfaces, or improper use of personal protective equipment.

Common causes of fall accidents: