Workplace accidents are prevalent in several industries. When Nashville workers give their all to their jobs, they expect they will complete their daily tasks free of injury or any other health risks. But, as we’ve seen severally as Nashville workers’ compensation attorneys, accidents in the workplace happen whether or not employees desire them.
Accidents will also happen even if employers follow all the safety measures required by their industry regulatory guidelines. This explains why in 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a total of 5,333 workers fatality from work-related injuries in the U.S. The number is two percent from the 2018 total of 5,250.
Thankfully, there are measures businesses and employees can follow to reduce workplace accidents and the resulting injuries and death. Our Nashville workers’ comp lawyers discuss these measures and proffer legal advice on what to do immediately after a work injury.
Six Ways to Prevent Accidents in the Workplace
Safety in the workplace cannot be overemphasized and must be taken seriously by both employers and employees. Below, we discuss six ways of preventing accidents in Nashville workplaces.
Stay Alert
There’s a reason why mornings are one of the busiest times at coffee shops. It’s because workers need their morning coffee to stay alert and relieve themselves of any residual fatigue or sleepiness. Staying alert at work is crucial; not only will it keep you from making mistakes, but it will also prevent accidents. Most people who feel tired at work put themselves and their colleagues in danger.
Below are tips to help you stay alert at work:
- Go for a walk before work
- Take a nap before work
- Take activity breaks
- Keep your workspace bright
- Drink water
- Drink caffeine early in your shift
- Keep snacks handy
- Get the easy stuff out of the way
Don’t Rush Your Work
In several workplaces, tasks are timed and must be delivered within the allocated time. As such, there is usually a sense of urgency among employees to get things done quickly. Unfortunately, this can prove counterproductive, as more speed can lead to mistakes that might result in an accident. For example, imagine a construction company with a deadline to complete a project.
If they lag, the pressure is on the workers to get the job done in time. As a result, they might neglect some safety measures that might result in an accident. So, it’s better to remember that slow and steady wins the race and do things with the right speed and meticulously.
Wear the Required Safety Gear
Every industry has safety gear that employees must wear for their safety. For example, those in the manufacturing industry who have to weld metals must wear protective eye goggles and gloves. Thus, always wear the safety apparel of your industry. So, if you work in the construction industry, you’ll be expected to wear the following:
- Work boots
- Gloves
- Earplugs
- Googles
- Hard hats
- Masks
- High visibility clothing
- Respirators
Follow Instructions to the Letter
Work accidents are not always the fault of the employer or something the employer failed to do. Sometimes, employees’ mistakes can cause accidents. This is common when workers fail to follow instructions to the letter. Complacency is a dangerous enemy at work, especially if you work in an industry that involves heavy machinery. Thus, don’t take shortcuts; stick to the instructions for operating every machinery. In addition, work with diligence and pay attention to your surroundings.
Pay Attention and Follow Safety/Emergency Drills
Another thing that causes workplace accidents is workers not paying attention to safety drills. You shouldn’t just go through the motions during safety exercises; pay close attention, as they just might save your life if an accident happens. In addition, knowing safety/emergency drills would help you know what to do in an emergency.
Insist Upon Proper Training
It is a common thing for employers to try to cut corners on training their staff. They do this to save money and increase their profit margin. But you shouldn’t let it slide. Demand proper training from your employer, especially if a mistake could injure you or end your life. If your employer refuses to provide adequate training after asking them to, you can report them to your industry’s regulatory body.
Let Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in Nashville, TN, Help You!
Even after following safety measures, workplace accidents can still happen. When it does, contact a Nashville work comp attorney immediately. At our firm, we’ll examine the events leading to the accident and determine if your injury is compensable. If it is, we’ll ensure you get all you deserve. So call today to schedule a free case review.