Statistically, it’s easy to identify the most accident-prone scenarios for workers. Addressing those issues is another matter. We reveal these workplace dangers and offer tips on how to prevent them.
Ranking the Top 10 dangers to workers
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified its preliminary Top 10 workplace safety violations for fiscal year 2020. The Top 10 for FY 2020 were:
- Fall protection (topping the list for the 10th straight year): 5,424 violations
- Hazard communication: 3,199
- Respiratory protection: 2,649
- Scaffolding: 2,538
- Ladders: 2,129
- Lockout/tagout: 2,065
- Powered industrial trucks: 1,932
- Fall protection training requirements: 1,621
- Personal protective and life-saving equipment, eye and face protection: 1,369
- Machine guarding: 1,313
Protecting yourself from accidents
The key to workplace safety is common sense. Here are eight tips for employees to avoid accidents:
- Know your surroundings. The more familiar you are with your workplace, the more aware you become of possible dangers.
- Maintain a correct posture. As the saying goes, “lift with your legs – not your back.” Correct posture also applies even if you work at a desk.
- Take regular breaks. Tired workers are more likely to become involved in an accident. Allow yourself a few minutes to recharge your mind and body.
- Never take shortcuts on workplace procedures. Instructions are in place for multiple reasons, including safety. The potential of saving a little time is not worth the risk of an accident.
- Educate yourself about new safety protocols. Before using any equipment for the first time, whether it is new to the company or just new to you, be sure you understand and follow all safety procedures.
- Keep emergency exits clear. It seems simple enough, but leaving a ladder or forklift blocking an exit for just a few minutes can lead to a major catastrophe during an emergency evacuation.
- Report all safety issues. You are on the front line, so part of your job is immediately informing your supervisor of any safety-related issues. Don’t just complain to your coworkers – say something to a manager.
- Always wear required safety equipment. Your employer provides personal protective equipment for a reason – to keep you safe.
Protect yourself after a work accident
Unfortunately, accidents are going to happen on the job. People make mistakes. Machinery fails. Employers are lax about providing a safe working environment or proper training. If you have been injured on the job in Philadelphia and are seeking workers’ compensation benefits, you are probably going to encounter many obstacles.
First, you may be in pain, out of work, and unable to pay your bills or provide for your family. Second, your employer may question the severity of your injuries and pressure you into returning to work sooner than you're ready. Lastly, the workers’ compensation system can be extremely confusing and might seem like it was designed to frustrate you at every turn.
Attorney Richard A. Jaffe, founder of The Law Offices of Richard A. Jaffe, LLC in Philadelphia, has more than 35 years of experience fighting for injured workers just like you. He will treat you with the compassion you deserve while aggressively pursuing the financial compensation you're entitled to.
Find out how our law firm can help you. Contact us today for a free consultation.