The workers’ compensation system is not fault-based, so no matter who caused a worker’s injury, he or she would still be able to obtain these crucial benefits in most cases. However, employers should still do what they can to minimize workplace hazards and keep employees safe.
Below is a list of some of the most common workplace accidents and ways to prevent them from occurring:
- Slips, trips, and falls: This is the most common type of accident, accounting for a third of all injuries in the workplace. These accidents tend to result in broken bones, back and head injuries, cuts, and sprains or pulled muscles. In order to prevent these accidents from occurring, some hazards employers should look out for and promptly address include slippery surfaces, loose rugs or mats, clutter, poor lighting, and uncovered cables.
- Getting caught or struck by moving machinery: Some of the most horrifying injuries are caused by moving machinery. Crushed hands, arms, blindness, severed fingers, and other life-altering injuries can occur as a result of improperly guarded machinery or flying objects from machines. To help prevent these tragic accidents, employers should ensure that any machine part, function, or process, is safeguarded and that existing hazards are controlled or eliminated. Additionally, all employees should be properly trained and provided appropriate protective clothing.
- Fires and explosions: Unexpected fires in the workplace are often caused by poor pipefitting, faulty gas lines, and incorrectly stored combustible materials or open flames. These accidents can result in damage to an employee’s respiratory system and varying degrees of burns. To help prevent these types of accidents, it is recommended that employers follow OSHA’s hazard communication standards and to keep material safety data sheets for chemicals on-hand. Additionally, employers should clearly communicate an evacuation system plan and have an alert system in place that informs all employees of hazards and emergency situations.
- Overexertion and repetitive stress injuries: Musculoskeletal injuries are another incredibly common type of workplace injury. Some of the most common causes include lifting heavy objects, no breaks, speeding up the line, and intensive keying, all of which can be addressed. When objects over 50 pounds need to be transported, employees should have access to a lifting device or should be able to enlist the assistance of a co-worker. In occupations where employees must perform repetitive tasks, short breaks should be required to prevent too much wear on the body.
Remember, when employers look out for the well-being of their employees it will benefit both parties.
Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Orange County
When employees sustain injuries at their place of work, they have a right to pursue workers’ compensation benefits to recover and help get back on their feet. At Alvandi Law Group, P.C., our workers’ compensation attorneys in Orange County are backed by over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of success that includes over $300 million recovered on behalf of our clients. If you were injured at work, you need to reach out to our knowledgeable team today.
Get started on your workers’ compensation and call our law office at (800) 980-6905 to request a free initial case evaluation. You will not owe us any legal fees until we win your case.