At work, you are thinking about what you need to do, the tasks you must complete and the decisions you need to make. Depending on the nature of your job, you may not be thinking about all the ways you could possibly suffer an injury. No matter what you do, there are certain safety standards Ohio employers have to meet. Failure to keep employees as safe as reasonably possible could result in unnecessary accidents and injuries.
You have the right to a reasonable expectation of safety in your workplace. There are certain standards in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration designed to lower the chance of unnecessary incidents. Precaution and vigilance are two of the simplest ways to avoid accidents that could leave you and others with painful and debilitating injuries.
Common safety violations
OHSA keeps a list of the most common safety violations seen in workplaces. This list is an indication of the most common reasons why workplace accidents happen and speaks to what employers can do to simply make it safer for workers to complete their job requirements. Frequently cited safety violations include:
- Lack of fall protection equipment and safety training for those working from heights
- Not providing workers with proper eye and face protection equipment
- Violations involving ladders, not training workers on how to safely climb and use ladders on jobs
- Not giving workers exposed to chemicals and certain toxins the right respiratory protective equipment
- Issues with scaffolding, such as improper construction or failing to secure the platforms
Another common problem is an employer’s failure to communicate with workers about potential hazards. Explaining risks and providing the training necessary to do these tasks safely is important. If you suffered injuries in a workplace accident, you have the right to seek financial support through a workers’ compensation claim, regardless of why your accident happened.
Getting the help you need
If you were hurt at work, you may be unsure of how to even begin the process of filing for workers’ compensation benefits. You do not have to walk through this process alone, but you will find it beneficial to work with an experienced attorney at every step. This guidance can be useful as you seek to maximize the benefits available to you and get what you need for a full and fair recovery from your work-related injuries.