While some negative aspects of a workplace can be tolerated, such as an irritating coworker or a long commute, unsafe work conditions need to be dealt with immediately. In 2017, work injuries caused by unsafe practices cost an estimated $161.5 billion. If you spot any of the following conditions or practices in your workplace, reach out to an attorney as soon as possible.

3 Unsafe Conditions That Can Lead to Work Injuries

1. Poor Air Quality

If you or your coworkers suffer allergy symptoms, wheezing or shortness of breath, or smell bad odors often in your work environment, it may be due to poor indoor air quality. Insufficient ventilation, circulating asbestos, and HVAC systems infested with mold are all causes of these symptoms, and they could result in serious illness if left unaddressed.   

2. Inadequate Ergonomic Conditions

You may be working in an office environment that requires you to sit at a desk or type on a computer throughout the day. If your employer has not considered your ergonomic needs when preparing your workspace, you run the risk of suffering a repetitive strain injury, or RSI. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most well-known RSI, but this type of injury isn’t limited to desk workers. RSIs can also result from working in cold weather, handling vibrating objects (such as jackhammers), or working with overhead objects.

3. Lack of Safety Equipment

If you work in a construction, laboratory or warehouse environment, your employer should provide and require everyone to wear appropriate safety equipment to avoid work injuries. Ask for safety goggles, protective head covering, gloves, or steel-toed work shoes in such workplaces. Don’t be afraid to report conditions that seem unsafe to protect yourself and your coworkers. If you believe your employer has retaliated against you for reporting unsafe conditions, get in touch with an attorney immediately.

If unsafe conditions exist in your workplace, contact an attorney to prevent work injuries. The Law Office Of TJ Morelli-Wolfe PC in Norwich, CT, boasts more than 20 years of experience in protecting the rights of employees in a wide range of work environments. Get the counsel and representation you need to protect yourself and your coworkers. For more information, visit the firm’s website. Call (860) 859-9899 to schedule a free consultation.