Workplace injuries are far more common than many people realize. In fact, it’s been estimated that around 340 million people suffer from workplace related injuries (Fatal 4) each year. And many of these accidents result in unfortunate loss of life.
Among all workplace accidents, four specific types of accidents tend to be the most common which are also known as Fatal 4. And at the same time, these are also the most avoidable when appropriate precautions are taken.
But how do you avoid these potentially fatal accidents, and what are the steps you can take to recover? You may be surprised, but with very moderate proactive effort, you can avoid most dangerous accidents while on the job. And coping with an injury can also be a simplified process as well.
If you’ve been injured on the job, the following will illustrate a few ways to avoid these accidents, and the steps you should take when injured.
The Fatal 4
The following accidents are regarded by OSHA as the Fatal 4 simply because they are the most common and most deadly accidents that can occur when on the job. And in most cases, these are all avoidable accidents when proper safety protocols are followed, and when precautions are taken.
1. Slip and Fall
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, and at any time. But these types of accidents usually occur for a variety of reasons:
- Improper footwear
- Not paying attention to signage
- Mud or grease on shoes
- Not using 3 points of contact when climbing
- Distractions
Avoiding a slip and fall is as simple as having a little attention to detail regarding your surroundings. Additionally, always exercising caution when climbing in and out of equipment and ensuring that you use caution around slippery substances such as grease and mud. To know further, you may click here.
2. Falling Objects
It’s hard to prepare for falling objects when you’re not expecting it. But as mentioned, being aware of your surroundings and attention to detail are going to be two ways you may be able to avoid being struck by falling objects.
Wearing protective gear such as a hardhat and using hand signals with other employees when moving equipment is often part of safety training when attempting to create a safe work environment.
3. Being Caught In-Between Objects
Being caught in-between objects is actually one of the more common (and fatal) work-related injuries. But at the same time, it’s also one of the most avoidable when appropriate safety protocols are followed.
Being caught in-between objects is common on construction sites and in warehouses when equipment or vehicles are being moved. To avoid this type of accident, a detailed system of communication between employees should be mandated and adhered to.
4. Electrocutions
Finally, being electrocuted is also a common workplace related injury. And yet this is also another injury that can be easily avoided by following safety guidelines and wearing appropriate PPE.
Simple steps for avoiding electrocution are as follows:
- Identify utility outlets before beginning work
- Identify exposed wires
- Be vigilant of overhead power lines
- Use ground-fault circuit interrupters
- Wear gloves and insulated boots around electrical worksites
Additionally, always keep a visual point of reference when moving scaffolding or other equipment around high-voltage areas.
What to Do if Involved in a Workplace Accident
The first thing you should do in the event of a workplace accident (Fatal 4) is to seek medical attention and have the accident documented. Documentation of the accident and your injuries is going to be critical for filing a claim for worker’s compensation or if you need to file a lawsuit. To know further about filing a lawsuit, you can read more here.
After you’ve sought appropriate medical attention, you’ll want to speak with your manager or your company’s HR department. These contacts will assist you with filing a claim or informing you of any options for compensation that you might be allowed.
If you find that your employer or insurance company is unwilling to cooperate, contacting Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers should be your next step to help you seek fair compensation.
Personal injury attorneys are well trained and knowledgeable when it comes to navigating the legal system. And if you’re the victim of negligence or you’ve been subjected to unfair handling of your claim, hiring a personal injury attorney is the best path forward.
Staying safe on the job can be a full-time job in itself. But by following the safety guidelines outlined here, and by adhering to any safety protocols that you have in place at work, you’ll likely be able to avoid most major accidents that are common in most workplace environments.
