Woman sues university for £30k after fall

Published on Wednesday 17 December 2008 08:54

AN exam invigilator is suing a university for more than £30,000 after she tripped on a wastepaper bin as she left a room carrying students' test papers.

Janice Burgess, 62, said she suffered a broken arm and injuries to her neck and knee in the fall during which she hit a wall.

Mrs Burgess, of Greenbank, Edinburgh, said she believed the pain from her shoulder had caused her to pass out.

Mrs Burgess was working as an invigilator with Napier University at its Merchiston campus when she was injured on August 16 in 2006. She is suing the higher education institution at the Court of Session.

The former bank employee said the bin was not in clear view and she did not see it.

She is seeking damages including compensation for her pain and suffering, and loss of earnings.

The university is contesting the action and denies any breach of duties. The hearing before judge Lady Dorrian continues.