Nearly every day in California, workers are injured while on the job. In many cases, this results in permanent disability that takes away a person’s ability to keep making a living. Often, worker’s compensation must pay for the loss. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Many of these accidents are preventable if you consider the root causes.
Newer workers are more likely to be injured on the job
It’s important to consider factors that can contribute to an environment in which a worker is more likely to be injured. Contributing factors to worker injuries often include things like:
- over-exerting workers
- new workers
- lack of training
- faulty equipment
- poor safety procedures
- poor workplace layout
- poorly designed work routines
- lack of safety audits
- unsafe storage of materials
Of these, statistics have shown newer workers to be injured more often than seasoned staff. This is because many employers have a “learn on the job” attitude. This, in turn, can lead to those workers making significant mistakes that either injure them or others or even lead to death in the workplace. All workers should always be properly trained to safely conduct themselves in the workplace before starting any position.
Most common workplace accidents
Preventing workplace injuries also requires understanding what kinds of accidents happen the most often in the workplace. This includes accidents involving:
- slips
- falls
- electrocution
- fires
- cuts and lacerations
- vehicle accidents
- exposure to deadly chemicals or gases
- neck and back injuries
- falling objects
- repetitive motion injuries
- machinery malfunction or misuse
Overall, the workplace can be a dangerous place. Employers must ensure that safety is upheld at all times in the workplace. This includes training new workers on standard safety procedures and avoiding injuries and accidents while on the clock.
