Workers in today’s fast-paced workplace deal with various dangers and hazards. Even in environments with the tightest safety protocols, mishaps can still happen.
Workplace accidents can cause serious injuries that may need medical attention and time away from work. These injuries can arise from falls from heights or exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Employers must provide proper training, equipment and follow all safety protocols to ensure employees’ safety and well-being. Still, accidents can occur for several reasons. In such cases, employees must know their rights and consult a workers’ compensation lawyer to help with legal issues.
Common Causes of Workplace Accidents
Workplace accidents have many potential causes, but some are more common than others. According to the National Safety Council, the top three causes of workplace injuries in 2019 were overexertion and bodily reaction, falls, and trips.
Let’s look at these common causes of workplace accidents and how they can be prevented.
Exposure to Chemicals
In some industries, employees may be regularly exposed to dangerous chemicals. This can include exposure through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Prolonged exposure to some chemicals may cause significant health problems.
Employers should provide proper training on handling and using chemicals safely to prevent exposure to chemicals. This entails installing suitable ventilation systems and offering suitable personal protective equipment. Employers should also regularly monitor and maintain chemical handling and storage safety measures.
Overexertion and Bodily Reaction
Overexertion and bodily reaction refer to injuries caused by excessive physical activity or strain. This can include lifting heavy objects, pushing or pulling equipment, or performing repetitive tasks. These injuries are often seen in the construction, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.
To prevent overexertion and bodily reaction injuries, employers should provide proper training on safe lifting techniques and encourage using tools or equipment to reduce strain. They should also implement regular breaks and rotate tasks to avoid prolonged periods of physical activity.
Falls
If you work in a job that involves working at heights, falls are a common risk. This can include falling from ladders, scaffolding, or rooftops. Falls can also occur on the same level due to slippery surfaces or tripping hazards.
Employers should provide proper fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and guardrails, to prevent falls in the workplace. They should also regularly inspect and maintain all equipment and work surfaces to ensure safety. Employees should also be trained to use the equipment and adequately recognize potential hazards.
Trips
Trips and slips are:
- Another common cause of workplace accidents
- Often occurring due to hazards such as uneven flooring
- Cluttered walkways
- Wet surfaces
It is possible for these types of accidents to occur in any field and can result in serious injuries.
Employers should maintain a clean, organized work environment to prevent trips and slips. This includes promptly cleaning up spills, properly storing equipment or materials, and marking hazardous areas. It is also essential to conduct regular inspections to identify and address any potential hazards.
Take Caution!
Employees may suffer severe repercussions from workplace accidents, such as bodily harm, financial hardship, and psychological misery. It is the duty of employers to ensure that their workers are working in a safe environment and to take all reasonable measures to avert common causes of workplace accidents.
By putting in place appropriate safety procedures, providing workers with training, and conducting routine inspections of workspaces and equipment, employers may dramatically lower the likelihood of workplace accidents. It is crucial that you get legal counsel and be aware of your rights as an employee if you have been hurt at work.
Maintaining everyone’s safety at work requires prevention. Thus, constantly be mindful of potential risks to ensure that you and your coworkers are working in a safe atmosphere.