When you go to work, you have the right to a reasonable expectation of safety. This means you should know the things that could potentially cause you harm, but there are certain factors and hazards that may be more prominent during the holiday season. Holiday safety should be a priority in every type of workplace, no matter what type of job you have.
One of the primary safety concerns during the holidays is distraction. People are busy, stressed and worried about everything from family issues to money. They may carry these things over into the workplace, leading to a higher chance of an accident. Your Ohio employer should be vigilant about enforcing safety standards, and you may find it helpful to look for certain things that could pose a risk to your health and well-being.
Potential hazards in your place of work
It may surprise you to see the many ways that holiday stress can actually impact your safety at work. Many different types of jobs in various fields see an increase in demand and production during the Christmas season, and even if this is not the case for your job, it still may be helpful to be aware of the following potential safety issues:
- Fatigue – People are more tired during this time of year, which could lead to fatigued workers on the job. This may mean they are more likely to be careless or make a mistake.
- Slips, trips and falls – Any type of hazard, from wet floors due to melted snow to an extension cord for a Christmas tree, can cause a worker to slip or trip, sustaining painful and potentially serious injuries.
- Rushing – Christmas may be a busy season in your line of work. This may mean others around you could be rushing or your employer could be pushing you to work faster or longer. This can lead to more accidents.
The holiday rush can bring various different types of hazards into your workplace. If you suffer any type of injury while at work, you could be eligible for benefits and support through a workers’ compensation claim.
Regardless of why your accident happened, you may find it beneficial to explore the legal options available to you by reaching out to an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. This can help you understand if you have grounds for a claim and how you can move forward.