Abolition of doctrine of common employment

(1) The doctrine of common employment at common law is hereby abolished, and it shall not be a defence to an action against a defendant for damage in respect of personal injuries caused by the wrongful act, neglect or default of a person employed by the defendant, that that person was at the time of the occurrence which caused the injuries in common employment with the plaintiff. (2) Every provision in a contract of service or apprenticeship, or in an agreement collateral thereto (including a contract or agreement entered into before the commencement of this Act) is void in so far as it has the effect of excluding or limiting any liability of the employer in respect of personal injuries caused to the person employed or apprenticed by the wrongful act, neglect or default of any person in common employment with him. (3) In this section, “personal injuries” includes any disease and any impairment of a person’s physical or mental condition. (4) This section binds the State. 6