According to a report, there were nearly 4800 deaths annually in 2020 at workplaces. These include fatalities from all the industries in the US. It is undoubtedly the workplace where an employer’s responsibility offers their employees the best safety against any accidents and hazards.
However, it is still on the employees to follow the safety guidelines, be educated about different signages, and stay alert at the workplace to avoid any fatal injuries. It is imperative if you are working in hazardous conditions such as a construction company, chemical factory, and more.
This article mentions some methods and ways for employees to follow and prevent major workplace injuries that can turn fatal. Read on to learn about the actions and reduce the possibilities of fatal injuries at your workplace.
What are the typical workplace fatal Injuries?
Minor injuries and wounds are expected at every working place. However, some industries, such as construction sites and chemical, electrical, and firecracker factories, report fatal injuries.
According to an experienced wrongful death attorney, they fight cases for several people who die at the workplace due to the employer’s negligent behavior. Their families get compensation for their loss; however, the person is gone, and they still have to bear the irreversible loss. These injuries can be:
- Slip and Fall
- Fire
- Electrical Shock
- Ergonomic Hazards
- Physical Hazards
- Biological Hazards
- Asbestos and more.
Although, wrongful deaths are legally compensable to help the bereaved families with finances to lead their life. But, it is upon you to prevent such injuries at your workplace.
Ensure to follow the below points for your and your family’s safety.
- Wear your safety gear
If your roles and responsibilities include doing something that threatens your health or body in any way, it is vital that you wear a safety guard. You may be the master of your job, but you must never underestimate the probability of accidents. Also, if your employer does not provide the safety gear, you must report it to the authorities and get them for all the employees. The safety gear may differ from industry to industry, but the aim is to keep the worker safe from injuries. The primary safety equipment includes:
- Protective eyewear
- Hard hats
- Earplugs
- Harness
- Protective footwear
- Gloves
- PPE kits
- Masks and more.
Also, if you feel that employees are having a problem using the equipment, request the company to arrange a professional training session for workers.
- Stay alert and know the signage
Each company is required to post signages in hazardous places. These include information regarding what incidents can occur here and who to contact in case of accidents. You should study and understand the company’s safety guide and comply with it at all times. If the company doesn’t offer signage, ask them to install signage at all places to prevent anyone from entering a dangerous site.
In addition, your responsibility is to stay active and alert while working. It would help if you had your eyes and ears open to detect any pre-signs of the accident. For instance, if you hear some sparking, report it to the management instead of continuing to work. It can help you prevent a significant fire or shock.
- Be adamant about your safety
If there ever comes the point in your career where the management asks you to perform any potentially hazardous task, you can deny it rightfully. Simply put, it is for your good that you refuse to perform any task that may pose a risk to your well-being at the workplace without proper training. You can request the management to provide safety gear, training, and healthcare procedures before you step in for the non-routine work.
- Be proactive in reporting violations immediately
Many disasters can be prevented if you take on the responsibility of ensuring safety around you. It is suitable for you and your colleagues. So, please make it a habit to speak out for any safety violations proactively. It could be defective machinery, unsafe working conditions, inappropriate safety gear, etc.
Moreover, you should work on creating an accountable environment wherein everyone is responsible for each other’s safety. They should be doing everything that ought to be done to ensure the workplace offers a safe environment to work. Experts suggest encouraging different ways to report the violation; it does not have to be by name. People should be able to register their issues anonymously to save themselves from repercussions if any.
Bottom Line
The employer undoubtedly must provide a safe working environment to their employees. However, it is equally essential on the worker’s part to follow the company’s safety guidelines. You may suggest ways to work better in hazardous conditions to prevent fatal injuries. Stay alert, Stay safe!
