The National Industrial Court, Lagos Division, has held Dingshengyuan Plastic Processing and Manufacturing Company liable for negligence over an industrial accident that crushed an employee’s right hand and resulted in the permanent loss of three fingers.
Justice Joyce Damachi held that the company failed in its duty to provide safe machinery, an adequate system of work and appropriate protective equipment for its employee.
The claimant, identified as John, told the court that he suffered serious injuries while working for the company and was subsequently left without adequate treatment. He also challenged the circumstances surrounding the termination of his employment.
The company did not enter an appearance or file a defence despite service of court processes and hearing notices. The judge nevertheless emphasised that the absence of a defence did not automatically entitle the claimant to judgment; he was still required to prove his case on the balance of probabilities.
After reviewing the evidence, the court found the claimant’s testimony and documentary evidence credible and sufficient.
The company was ordered to pay ₦504,000 in special damages for pharmaceutical expenses, ₦41,000 as one month’s salary in lieu of notice, ₦20 million in general damages for the permanent disability and psychological trauma, and ₦500,000 in costs.
The National Industrial Court’s own news index also records the September 3 decision under the title, “Court Declares firm liable for Workplace Accident, awards 20m damages.”
The judgment reinforces the principle that an employer’s obligation to provide a reasonably safe workplace is a personal and non-delegable duty.
Source: New Telegraph
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