Despite the best efforts of workers and employers, workplace accidents happen every day. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2.8 million U.S. workers were injured on the job in 2014 alone. That is an average of more than 7,600 workers per day. It is the responsibility of employers and workers to maintain a safe and hazard free workspace. By following these tips, you can help reduce accidents and keep the workplace safe.

1. Keep a tidy workplace: When things are frequently left out of place, clutter can quickly accumulate. Working environments should have adequate space for personnel to safely move around and preform all duties. This means keeping walkways free of clutter and cleaning workspaces after use. Untidy workspaces can lead to slip and fall injuries and may even constitute a fire hazard.
2. Promote safety awareness: Building a culture that promotes safety awareness can help to ensure that workers are continually educated on safety issues. By paying attention to common accidents or problem areas, you can develop strategies to help reduce the rate at which injuries occur.
3. Maintain open communication: For any job that requires individuals to work as part of a team, communication is key. Team members should stay informed regarding the activities of others and report any potential hazards before they cause injury.
4. Always wear proper gear and equipment: Protective gear and safety equipment exist for the sole purpose of keeping workers safe and should be made available to you. Depending on the industry, these can include: hardhats, non-slip shoes, latex gloves, earplugs, and safety glasses. Additionally, wearing clothing suitable for the environment can protect you from exposure to the elements and hazardous weather.
5. Do not cut corners: Workers and employers sometimes use shortcuts as a way to complete tasks ahead of schedule. When steps are skipped or overlooked, accidents can happen. Procedures and protocols exist to ensure that tasks are done correctly, and skipping steps greatly increases the potential for injury. Like the saying goes, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”
6. Inspect equipment before use: Equipment will wear out, especially when it is used every day. By performing regular inspections of equipment, potential issues can be caught early on. Old and broken equipment should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Injured on the Job? Get in Touch with a Lawyer Today

It is the responsibility of supervisors, safety personnel, and CEO’s alike to provide employees with a hazard-free working environment. When employers fail to offer a safe workspace, they may be held accountable for resulting injuries. If you have been injured while on the job, call a workers’ compensation attorney at Alvandi Law group today. Our firm is 100% focused on workers compensation cases and we have over two decades of experience helping our clients get the settlements they deserve.

The sooner you talk to us, the sooner we can help. Call us at (800) 980-6905.