Non-fatal Accident

Isaiah Johnson

Durham Miners' Association
Compensation Department

Easington. Isaiah Johnson, 51, hewer.

On 15th November, 1923, this man fell off with Miners' Nystagmus. Full compensation was paid until 11th September, 1926, when it was reduced to 7/6 per week on a report of the Owners’ doctor who reported on 26th August, 1926, as follows :—

"Suffering from Miners’ Nystagmus, much improved. No eye movements after prolonged stooping. No apparent giddiness. Less nervous tremor and his condition is such that he is fit for light work at bank."

Dr. Boyd Cunningham (the man’s own doctor) on 8th September, 1926, reported as follows :—

"Examination. — Johnson is suffering from Miners’ Nystagmus. The twitching of the lids and oscillation of the eye-balls can be observed when he does any stooping — they also can be seen when he turns his eyes into extreme positions.

From the result of my examination I am of opinion that Johnson is incapacitated from performing any kind of work underground. He is only fit to perform suitable light work at bank in daylight where there is little or no stooping or heavy lifting. He is unfit to perform the full work of a labourer at bank. His incapacity is entirely due to Miners' Nystagmus."

No suitable light work has been offered and Johnson now claims full compensation.

Awarded compensation at the reduced rate of 12/- per week.

Source: NEEMARC - Ref: NUMDA/6/1/1/6, Reports of the Compensation Department, Vol VI covering Jan-Dec 1926

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