Who is liable for a dog bite at work?
Animals Act 1971 s.2 — keeper of an animal of a dangerous species, or keeper who knew of individual animal's dangerous tendency, is strictly liable; dog owner / keeper; and/or employer if they failed to provide a safe system of work
What is the employer's duty?
Where dog bite risk is foreseeable — Royal Mail / utility workers / housing officers — employer must risk assess; provide guidance; provide protective equipment; allow refusal of entry
What if you were a visitor to someone's home?
Occupiers' Liability Act 1957 — occupier owes duty to lawful visitors; Animals Act 1971 — keeper liability; does not need to be at work to claim but work context strengthens claim
How is a dog bite claim valued?
Scarring; PTSD; infection complications; physical injury to hand/arm/face; JCG ranges for scarring and psychiatric injury
Related questions
Can I claim against the homeowner if their dog bit me during a work visit?
Yes — under the Animals Act 1971 and/or the Occupiers' Liability Act 1957.
Can I claim against my employer for a dog bite?
If your employer failed to provide a safe system of work for visiting properties where dogs are known hazards, they may also be liable.
Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.
Enquiries may be referred to SRA-regulated UK solicitor firms where appropriate. No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.
0800 000 0000Where did the accident happen?
Pick the setting closest to your situation.
Sources
- Animals Act 1971
- Occupiers' Liability Act 1957
- HSWA 1974
- JCG 17th edition (scarring, psychiatric injury)
This answer is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.