What to Do If a Public Liability Incident Happens

A Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses and Contractors

If someone is injured or their property is damaged due to your business activities, you may be faced with a public liability incident.

These situations can be stressful—but knowing what to do can help you protect your business, respond properly, and support a smooth insurance claim.

Here’s what to do if a public liability incident occurs:

1. Ensure Safety First

• Immediately check that no one is in danger

• Call emergency services if someone is injured

• Make the area safe to prevent further harm

• If possible, cordon off the affected area or equipment

2. Record the Incident Details

Document the event as clearly as possible. This helps support both the insurer’s investigation and your legal position. Record:

• Date, time and location of the incident

• A brief description of what happened

• Names and contact details of any injured person or third party

• Witness details (names, phone numbers, and their version of events)

• Any equipment or conditions that may have contributed (e.g. wet floor, faulty gate, tools left out)

3. Take Photos (If Safe to Do So)

Photograph:

• The scene

• Any damage or injury (if appropriate)

• Surrounding environment

• Any relevant signage, tools, or hazards involved

 Tip: Take wide shots and close-ups from multiple angles. More detail helps down the line.

4. Do Not Admit Fault or Liability

It’s very important that you don’t admit responsibility, even if you feel at fault. Simply express concern, offer help if needed, and let them know your insurer will follow up.

Admitting or assigning blame prematurely—before the facts are reviewed—can complicate your insurance cover.

5. Notify Your Broker or Insurer Immediately

Contact your broker as soon as possible after an incident occurs.

We’ll help you:

• Lodge the claim or incident notification

• Guide you through what evidence is needed

• Liaise with the insurer and third party on your behalf

• Keep you informed throughout the process

Even if a formal claim hasn’t been made by the third party, it’s important to report the incident quickly, so it’s on record.

 Common Public Liability Incidents Include:

• A customer tripping over wiring, hoses, or equipment

• Someone getting injured on your premises

• Property damage during a worksite visit or delivery

• Dust or leakage from your work damaging someone else’s property

In Summary:

If a public liability incident occurs:

1. Ensure everyone's safety

2. Document everything clearly

3. Don’t admit fault

4. Take photos

5. Contact your broker to report the incident