Chris Pawson, a 38-year-old former joiner, has been awarded a substantial seven-figure settlement after a severe workplace accident cost him two fingers and his career. The incident occurred in February 2022 when Pawson, working on a rush job, operated a circular saw that had not been properly set up by a colleague. His right hand was pulled into the spinning blade, resulting in the complete loss of his middle finger and partial amputation of his ring finger. His thumb and index finger also sustained extensive nerve, muscle, and tendon damage.
Prior to the accident, Pawson had a successful career as a self-employed joiner, specializing in creating furniture and fittings for high-street food chain makeovers. The injury left him unable to return to his skilled trade. After his company provided only two months' pay, Pawson, facing financial hardship with a new baby and a mortgage, initiated legal action against his former employers, BGS Projects Ltd.
Initially, the company's lawyers attempted to settle for approximately $199,767.75, an offer Pawson's legal team deemed inadequate given the catastrophic impact on his life and career. Following a four-year legal battle, Pawson secured an undisclosed seven-figure settlement through Express Solicitors. This settlement has enabled him to access cutting-edge bionic prosthetics from the United States.
These advanced prosthetics, tailored for specific functions, have allowed Pawson to regain a degree of normalcy. He now uses them for daily tasks such as driving, typing, and lifting heavier objects. He also has a cosmetic set that closely resembles his original fingers. The settlement also covers ongoing rehabilitation and provides financial security for his family.
Reflecting on the accident, Pawson described the initial shock and the subsequent unimaginable pain. He emphasized the profound impact the injury had on his ability to perform everyday tasks, including holding his newborn child. "Until you have lived it you don’t realise how much you rely on your hand for everything," he stated.
Despite the physical and emotional toll, Pawson has redirected his career. He now works as a resource assistant in the electrical department at Blackpool and the Fylde College, where he previously trained. In this role, he mentors over 150 students, sharing his industry knowledge and warning them about workplace safety. "It’s great seeing the enthusiasm from the students and seeing them learn new skills," Pawson commented.
His legal team highlighted the importance of workplace safety, with partner Nicola Simmons stating, "All workplaces need to do more to make sure equipment is safe for use to prevent tragic accidents like this from ever happening again."