Manaus Electrician Awarded R$ 1.7 Million Compensation After Accident

The case gained national prominence after the Regional Labor Court of the 11th Region (TRT-11) increased the compensation to R$ 1.7 million, involving three companies held liable for a workplace accident in Manaus that resulted in the partial amputation of the right hand and severe permanent injuries to the left.

Accident details and consequences

The worker, hired in 2017 as an electrician, suffered an electrical discharge in March 2023 during maintenance work on an electrical grid. Medical forensics confirmed extensive burns, partial amputation of the right hand, and severe functional impairment of the left hand, as well as the need for a myoelectric prosthesis and continuous treatment.

Liability of the companies involved

The TRT-11 recognized the joint liability of three companies: one ordered the execution of the service, another held subsidiary liability, and the direct employer was excluded from the conviction for lacking a direct link to the activity performed at the time of the accident. The reporting appellate judge, Audaliphal Hildebrando da Silva, highlighted that the evidence showed contributions from three companies, whether through action or omission, including ownership of the structure, maintenance requests, and operational failures.

Types of compensation awarded

The ruling encompasses compensation for moral, existential, aesthetic, and material damages. For material damages, a pension equivalent to 34 years was calculated, taking into account a life expectancy of 77 years. Court costs were set at R$ 35,000, payable by the companies. The case is proceeding under judicial secrecy.

Impact on the worker's life

Before the accident, the electrician led an active social life, played the pandeiro, took part in pagode circles, fished, played soccer, and operated outboard boat motors. Following the electric shock, he became dependent on others for daily tasks, saw his autonomy reduced, and had his leisure and social activities restricted, constituting existential damage according to the reporting judge.

Repercussions of the ruling

The decision reinforces the importance of joint corporate liability in outsourcing scenarios and demonstrates that the Labor Court can significantly increase compensation amounts when joint fault is proven. The case also serves as a warning to the electrical sector regarding the need for more rigorous safety protocols during maintenance services.

With information from Migalhas, Revista Proteção.