Any workplace can pose dangers to workers, but this is particularly true for industrial workers. When workplace environments are not safe, they pose a serious risk to the health and well-being of workers. Every year, thousands of lives are lost in industrial accidents throughout the country. Below, our Baton Rouge industrial accident lawyer outlines the most common causes of these accidents and how to proceed afterward.
Fatigue
One of the most common causes of workplace accidents is fatigue. Industrial work requires manual labor, and the shifts are often very long, which is exhausting for workers. It is important that employees take breaks at regular intervals to recover and rest. When they are not able to do this, it can cause many issues, including general fatigue. Employers must ensure all workers are given time off and breaks to ensure they remain safe.
Heavy Lifting
Heavy lifting is another common cause of industrial accidents. Lifting heavy objects can result in sprains, strains, and torn muscles. Lifting heavy objects can cause the spine to experience trauma, and it can also result in overexertion, which can lead to additional injuries. Braces, hoists, and forklifts should be used to ensure workers do not suffer injury from heavy lifting.
Dehydration
It is not uncommon for industrial workers to perform their jobs in areas of high heat. Smelters, foundries, outdoor occupations, and more can all cause workers to become dehydrated. Dehydration causes many physical issues, such as fainting, low blood pressure, and more. Employers should ensure workers have plenty of water and rest breaks throughout the day to ensure employees do not suffer harm.
Exposure to Hazardous Materials
When hazardous materials are not properly handled, they can cause a serious industrial accident. Failing to wear the proper protective equipment can also result in exposure to hazardous materials. Employers should properly train workers when handling these substances, provide worker safety data sheets, and make sure all workers are wearing the proper protective equipment so no one becomes hurt.
Insufficient Lighting
Employers do not always realize the importance of providing workers with proper lighting. However, insufficient lighting commonly causes many industrial accidents. Broken, missing, or outdated bulbs can all make it more difficult for industrial employees to work safely. While many employers are choosing LED lighting today for their long life and brighter illumination, these too have their problems. LED lighting can make it harder to see objects in shadowy areas, discern color-coding, and make it harder to react to objects in one’s peripheral vision.
Slip and Falls
Every year, thousands of workers are hurt in slip and fall accidents. High-traffic corridors, cluttered or slick floors, and improper footwear can all result in slip and fall accidents. Many people think that these accidents do not result in serious injuries, but that is not true. Industrial workers are prone to falling onto dangerous equipment or concrete floors, or they may fall from heights. These accidents result in severe injuries and sometimes, they are even fatal. Slip and fall accidents are also one of the most common causes of workers’ compensation claims.
Chemical or Gas Explosions
Explosions happen in industrial workplaces more often than people think. Manufacturing plants, warehouses, and oilfields are all workplaces that are at risk of explosions occurring. Electrical issues, chemical spills, faulty equipment, and explosive substances can all result in an explosion that causes serious injuries. Additionally, an initial explosion may cause subsequent explosions, injuring a larger number of workers over a larger area. Even the smallest mistake, such as smoking around hazardous substances, can put all employees on a job site at risk.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
All jobs come with a certain degree of stress, but this is particularly true in industrial work because the jobs are so dangerous. If you are not properly trained for your position, you work with inadequate safety equipment, or you are overworked, it can be very stressful. A worker experiencing stress is more likely to make mistakes because they are fatigued, and this can cause serious injury.
Industrial accidents are also traumatic. They often result in catastrophic injuries and are life-changing for workers. This can cause them to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can stay with them for years, or even the rest of their lives.
Our Industrial Accident Lawyer in Baton Rouge Can Explain Your Legal Options
After an industrial accident, you may have many options for recovering compensation. At Big River Trial Attorneys, one of our Baton Rouge industrial accident lawyers can review the facts of your case, determine which route is right for you, and guide you through the process so you obtain the full compensation you need. Call us now at (225) 963-9638 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.
