There were 4,585 workplace injury deaths in 2013 and an estimated 50,000 fatalities from workplace exposure each year, according to the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health. This data, however, does not include the thousands of worker suffering injuries each year.
Accidents are not planned and cannot be totally eliminated. But there are workplace precautions that greatly decrease their likelihood and the need to file for worker’s compensation.
Organized workplaces
Disorganized, unclean, and cluttered workplaces pose hazards. For example, exposed cables and misplaced boxes are tripping hazards.
Visible signs concerning specific safety procedures can also reduce accidents. These should be posted in areas where these precautions must be practiced.
Vehicles
Employers that provide workers with vehicles must regularly service and maintain those vehicles. Each year, unperformed vehicle costs over $2 billion. Poor maintenance also reduces the average lifespan of vehicles from 200,000 to 150,000 miles.
Reports
Employers must report all accidents. Injuries that appear minor can become serious. Worker’s compensation eligibility also requires prompt reporting and filing.
Employees should also bring any hazards or faulty equipment to management’s attention. This can help employers eliminate the problem or provide warnings to workers and customers.
Training
Workers need proper training for their jobs, so they perform competently. This includes instruction on equipment use and safety procedures.
Equipment and procedures
The law and good practices require safety equipment, such as safety harness and gloves and goggles, for certain tasks. Workers should not engage in these tasks without the proper equipment.
Likewise, over-familiarity with tasks and taking shortcuts are a major cause of accidents. Workers should not forego safety procedures and equipment because it takes up time or they are overconfident.
Injured workers should report their injuries, even minor injuries, as soon as possible to prevent it from worsening and to receive proper care. Prompt reporting is also important to receive Wisconsin workers’ compensation. An attorney can help assure that they comply with its procedures and do not unintentionally surrender rights.