At Gash & Associates, P.C. in White Plains, NY, we’re committed to helping employees and employers understand the basics of workplace safety. Knowing the most common injuries in your field and taking steps to prevent them is how you create a safer work environment for everyone. But when accidents do happen, both sides need to know how responsible they are for the injuries.
This article will discuss the most common workplace injuries, as well as who can be held accountable when they happen. If you’ve been involved in a workplace accident, call our personal injury team today.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
One of the top causes of workplace injuries is slipping, tripping, and falling. These accidents can happen in any workplace setting, and they can cause serious harm to your head, elbows, knees, or back. It’s important to keep work areas clean and free of clutter, and floors should be dry and well-lit. Using mats in slippery spots and making sure cables are not in the way will also help.
If the employee’s personal workplace clutter causes the accident, they can still receive workers’ compensation to cover their injuries. If the accident involved an unsafe workplace, and the employer should have been aware of the hazards, they may be liable in a personal injury lawsuit.
Pulls, Sprains, and Strains
Injuries like strains or sprains often happen from making the same motion over and over or lifting heavy things improperly. Making workspaces comfortable and changing how jobs are done can help avoid these types of injuries. For example, using equipment designed to help with lifting or rearranging a desk for better posture can make a big difference. Teaching workers the right way to lift and encouraging short breaks to stretch can also prevent strains and sprains.
Machinery Accidents
Accidents involving machinery can be very serious. They usually happen when machines are not used correctly or kept in good condition. To keep workers safe, it’s important to check machinery regularly and fix any problems right away. Workers should get full training on using machines safely, including what safety gear to wear and what to do in an emergency. If these trainings are neglected, and an employee is asked to perform a task that requires them, the employer will be blamed for the dangerous situation.
Struck by or Caught In Between
This type of injury happens when someone is hit by something moving, like a vehicle or falling object, or they get caught in or between objects moving together. Making sure the work area is safe and well-organized can prevent these types of accidents. So can using signs that warn about crushing dangers or pinching points. Workers should also be trained on the safety procedures involved in moving large products.
Call Gash & Associates if You’ve Been Involved in a Workplace Accident
If you’re dealing with a workplace injury, Gash & Associates, P.C. can help. With our experience in injury law, we can guide you through the legal process and work towards the best possible outcome. Call us at (914) 328-8800 for advice and support.
