A train worker, who suffered a serious arm injury while working onboard a train, has secured compensation after suffering a laceration to his left arm when working on a train heading from Newcastle to London Kings Cross in May 2022.

He injured it on a sharp metal section of equipment, which should not have been exposed in a staff area of the train, with the injury requiring medical attention.

The man, a member of the RMT union, has been left with significant scarring and has spoken of his frustration with his prior concerns about the safety of the equipment being ignored by his employer.

He said: “I’m really disappointed that my employer ignored my previous concerns and failed to make the necessary safety changes to prevent further incidents.

“I have a very noticeable scar, which I’m self-conscious about, it’s a permanent reminder of an avoidable incident.”

The RMT member instructed the national law firm, Thompsons Solicitors, to launch a compensation claim, on the basis that his employer had been negligent and had exposed him to a preventable risk of injury. His employer admitted liability.

In support of the workplace injury claim, Thompsons called upon the expertise of an independent medical practitioner, who prepared a report detailing the sustained injury.

Following detailed negotiations, Thompsons was able to secure a settlement, which compensated the train worker for his pain and suffering as a result of his employer’s negligence.

He added: “The support I received from Thompsons Solicitors was second-to-none. It’s been a really smooth experience from start to finish. They’ve provided me with helpful advice and kept me up to date with the progress of legal proceedings.”

Thompsons’ Rachel Keogh, who represented the RMT member, said: “While no amount of money can compensate for the avoidable distress our client endured because of this incident, we are pleased that we were able to secure this settlement.

“Working in partnership with the RMT, our case was strengthened by the evidence of the independent medical expert. The settlement figure compensated him for his arm injury and its impact on his life.

“We hope this settlement can provide some closure and allow him to move on with his life.”