Workplace Injury Lawyers

Workplace Safety Can Help Prevent Accidents

The following workplace safety tips can help you protect yourself against workplace injuries. Workplace accidents are usually a result of negligence or disregarding safety hazards. This negligence may be on the part of your employer or supervisor. It’s important to be on the look out for hazards to maintain a safe working environment.

Slip in falls accidents in the workplace account for 15-25 percent of all nonfatal workplace injuries. Some things to look for to avoid a slip and fall include:

• Loose floorboards
• Defective sidewalks
• Parking lot potholes
• Poorly constructed staircases
• Torn carpeting
• Recently mopped or waxed floors
• Leaks

Other important workplace safety tips to consider:

1. Be aware of your surroundings
2. Keep correct posture to protect your back
3. Take regular breaks
4. Use tools and machines properly
5. Keep emergency exists easily accessible
6. Report unsafe conditions to your supervisor
7. Use mechanical aids whenever possible
8. Stay sober
9. Reduce workplace stress
10. Wear the correct safety equipment

Some workplace injuries may not be apparent right away or caused by an obvious action like falling. These types of injuries are called repetitive stress or repetitive strain injuries. A common form of a repetitive stress injury in the workplace is carpal tunnel. These types of injuries are on the rise mainly because of increased use of computer in the workplace.

Some warning sign of a repetitive stress injury to consider include:

• Sharp or dull aching pain in limbs, that my increase over time
• Tingling or numbness in hands or arms or in certain fingers
• Fatigue because of the pain you’re dealing with
• Weakness or clumsiness as a result of loss of strength

The effects of a work accident can affect your life much longer than the recovery period. Between a loss of income and potentially disabling injuries a work accident could change your life. It’s important to take the proper actions to protect your rights, your family and your future.

Be sure to report injuries to your supervisor or employer, get medical attention and speak to a lawyer about filing a claim, before you lose your right to benefits.