Each year, nearly three million Americans workers have some type of job-related illness or debilitating injury. While workers’ compensation programs provide wage replacement benefits and medical care to injured employees, a few safety measures can prevent many accidents and occupational illnesses from occurring in the first place. Whether you work in an office or on a construction site, the tips below will help keep you and your coworkers safe.

A Guide to Workplace Safety 

1. Understand the Risks

Work-related accidents are often associated with construction, manufacturing, and other high-risk industries, but every workplace presents dangers. Programmers, for instance, are prone to carpal tunnel syndrome, while delivery drivers are often injured in vehicle collisions. Knowing the risks of your profession can help prevent accidents, chronic medical conditions, and workers’ compensation claims.

2. Tidy up the Workspaces

Cluttered, poorly organized workspaces present hidden tripping hazards and create conditions where someone can be injured by falling equipment. Make sure all tools are put away promptly, run computer cables along the walls, and report any maintenance issues immediately.

3. Stack Materials Properly

Falling supplies and products cause a significant proportion of workers’ compensation claims, especially in warehouses and manufacturing facilities. Always stack boxes with heavier items on the bottom, and use the right equipment when taking objects off higher shelves.

4. Follow the Safety Rules

Employers are required to post signage notifying workers of special risks and describing which safety equipment to use. Even if you think the requirements are excessive, keep in mind that those rules are designed for your safety.

5. Notify Your Employer of Safety Risks

Many employers depend on their workers to identify and report any dangerous conditions that could lead to an injury. If you notice fluid leaks, malfunctioning safety guards, or broken rails in a stairwell, inform your employer immediately, ideally in writing.
 

As the premier personal injury firm serving New York’s Orange and Rockland counties, Neimark & Neimark offers detailed guidance and extensive expertise to injured workers throughout the area. If you’ve been hurt in an accident or developed a work-related medical condition, their legal team will ensure you receive the full workers’ compensation benefits you deserve. Visit their website to learn more about their services. Call (888) 725-7424 to consult with an experienced attorney today.