[Summary translation prepared by Business & Human Rights Centre]

Decision dated December 18, 2025, in case No. 212/13268/25

On November 14, 2025, the plaintiff, represented by attorney Yavodchak O.V., filed a lawsuit against PJSC “Sukha Balka” seeking UAH 400,000 in moral damages caused by workplace-related health impairment.

The plaintiff stated that he had been employed by the defendant from July 28, 1997 to January 30, 2024. According to a decision of the expert commission dated November 6, 2025, he was assigned a 55% loss of professional working capacity due to occupational diseases and granted Group III disability. He reported significant deterioration in his quality of life, including chronic pain in the lumbosacral spine radiating to the leg, impaired mobility, numbness and cold sensitivity in the hands, shortness of breath with minor exertion, coughing, chest heaviness, fatigue, and psychological distress such as anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances.

The court established that while working underground as a mine support worker at the “Yuvileina” mine from January 14, 1998 to January 30, 2024, the plaintiff was exposed to hazardous conditions, including high levels of vibration, fibrogenic dust, inadequate ventilation and dust suppression, and significant physical strain due to limited mechanization in confined underground spaces. These factors led to the development of occupational diseases and reduced working capacity.

The court ruled:

The claim is partially satisfied.

PJSC “Sukha Balka” shall pay the plaintiff UAH 250,000 in moral damages, without deduction of personal income tax or other mandatory payments.

The remainder of the claim is denied.

PJSC “Sukha Balka” shall also pay court fees to the state in the amount of UAH 2,500.