Facts
A mechanic who had only one good eye was not given goggles. A chip of metal struck his good eye and blinded him.
Issue
Should the employer have taken account of the gravity of harm to this particular worker?
Held
Yes. The employer was in failing to provide him with goggles.
Principle
The seriousness of the possible injury, including the claimant's known vulnerability, affects the precautions required.
Why it matters
Leading authority on the gravity of harm.
Cited in these chapters
Cite this page
Paris v Stepney Borough Council [1951] AC 367 (Lanbuk) <https://www.lanbuk.com/llb/torts/cases/paris-v-stepney> accessed 31 October 2026
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This summary is a Lanbuk study aid based on the generally known facts and reports of the case. It is not legal advice.