Written by Rick Gregory, Editorial Lead · Legal information checked in collaboration with Edward & Amaury Solicitors (SRA 800525) · October 2026 · ~4 min read
WorkClaim UK is a trading name of Edward and Amaury Limited (Edward & Amaury Solicitors), authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA 800525).
Quick Summary
- A hydraulic (high-pressure) injection injury happens when pressurised fluid, such as hydraulic oil or grease, is forced through the skin
- The wound can look small but the Health and Safety Executive treats these as surgical emergencies, so seek hospital treatment immediately
- Common causes include burst hoses, failed fittings and grease guns
- You may be able to claim if your employer failed to maintain equipment or use safe systems of work
- This guide covers England and Wales
What is a hydraulic injection injury?
According to the Health and Safety Executive, a hydraulic injection injury occurs when a jet of fluid under pressure breaks the skin. Serious cases have been reported at pressures over 100 bar, and the HSE notes that injury may occur at much lower pressures too.
The fluid can cause harm in two ways: through the force of the injection and the damage to tissue underneath, and through the toxic effect of the fluid itself. An entry wound may look like a small puncture, but without treatment the damage can spread, and in severe cases injuries of this kind can lead to amputation.
What should you do straight away?
- Get to hospital or call 999 immediately, even if the injury looks minor or does not hurt much yet
- Tell medical staff that you have been injured by a high-pressure fluid and what the fluid was
- Do not try to squeeze out the fluid or treat the wound yourself
- Report the incident to your employer and make sure it is recorded in the accident book
How do these injuries happen at work?
Typical situations include a hydraulic hose or fitting failing under pressure, a grease gun nipple detaching during servicing, working near or checking for leaks on a pressurised system, and maintenance done without isolating or releasing pressure first. They are most often seen in engineering, manufacturing, farming, construction plant and vehicle maintenance.
Can you claim for a hydraulic injection injury?
A claim is brought in negligence or for breach of statutory duty. The question is whether your employer failed to take reasonable steps to protect you. Examples that may be relevant include:
- Failing to inspect and maintain hoses, fittings and equipment under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998
- No safe system for isolating and depressurising equipment before work
- Not providing training, supervision or suitable equipment
- No proper risk assessment under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
Compensation, if a claim succeeds, can cover the injury itself, treatment, lost earnings and the effect on your ability to work. The amount depends on the severity and long-term effects, which is why medical evidence matters.
Evidence that helps
- Hospital and surgical records
- The accident book entry and any RIDDOR report
- Photographs of the equipment and the failed part, if safe to take
- Maintenance and inspection records, training records and risk assessments
- Names of witnesses
Frequently asked questions
Is a hydraulic injection injury an emergency?
Yes. The HSE describes high-pressure injection injuries as surgical emergencies. Do not wait for symptoms to develop.
Can I claim if the injury happened while servicing equipment?
Possibly. It depends on whether your employer provided a safe system of work, suitable equipment and training. A solicitor can look at the circumstances.
Does my employer have to report it?
Serious injuries at work can be reportable under RIDDOR. Your employer is responsible for deciding and making the report, and you can check that the incident was recorded.
How long do I have to claim?
The usual personal-injury time limit is three years from the accident or from when you first knew the injury was significant. Take advice early so evidence is not lost.
Injured by pressurised fluid at work?
A specialist solicitor can look at the equipment, maintenance and training to see whether a claim may be possible.
Or call 01228 272395 to speak to Edward & Amaury Solicitors (SRA number: 800525). No upfront cost and nothing to pay if your claim does not succeed.