An annual list of common health and safety violations has been released by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) that details findings from nearly 32,000 workplace violations.
More than 4,500 workplace fatalities occurred in the past year, while an additional three million workers sustained injuries on the job-site. Federal law states that employers must provide employees with safe workplaces, however many disregard standard safety regulations.
By releasing a list of the 10 top hazards most commonly seen by inspectors, OSHA hopes that employers will significantly reduce the number of dangers that injure or kill workers each year. The following list provides some ways that employers can initiate workplace safety:
- Preventing falls
- Communicating hazards
- Use of scaffolding
- Use of respiratory protection
- Lockout/Tagout procedures
- Use of powered industrial trucks
- Ladder safety
- Machine guarding
- Electrical wiring
- General electrical requirements
The most common cause of injuries and deaths in the work pace is falling. Construction employees who often deal with scaffolding and high-reaching ladders are most susceptible to fall-related injuries. To counteract the growing number of fall-related fatalities, OSHA has already initiated a campaign focused on promoting the seriousness of fall prevention.
Malfunctioning or unsafe use of machinery is also a major concern in the workplace. OSHA cites that many employees are injured or killed each year because of improper use of heavy machinery, which can be prevented by following lockout and tagout procedures.
Accidents in the workplace are inevitable, but most can be prevented by following proper safety procedures. If you have been in a work-related accident we can help you file for workers’ compensation and determine if you may be entitled to additional compensation.
Contact our Knoxville workers’ compensation lawyers today for a free, no obligation consultation.
Call (865) 247-0080 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.
