Preventing falls and workplace injuries

Workers in New Jersey can face an array of on-the-job dangers, including hazards that lead to slip-and-fall accidents. While many might expect these to be minor incidents, falls can lead to severe injuries and even fatalities. This is true both for construction workers dealing with significant heights and office workers going through their regular daily routines. In 2014, 660 workers lost their lives in the United States after falling from heights; in addition, another 138 workers were killed from same-level falls.

It can be easy to miss workplace safety hazards that present slip-and-fall risks, especially when following routine paths. When workers keep their eyes out, however, they can help to avoid some of the most severe incidents. In addition, workers can walk more slowly and refrain from mobile phone use or emailing while walking down a path. It is also important to rectify hazards where they emerge; for example, quickly cleaning a liquid spill or removing an obstacle can help other workers avoid injuries.

Construction workers in particular also have much to be concerned about when it comes to falls from heights. In 2016, 991 construction workers were killed in workplace accidents. Of those, 370 died after a fall from a height to a lower level. The use of fall protection equipment and proper safety gear when moving between levels can be particularly important on a construction job site.

People who have been injured in a workplace slip-and-fall accident can suffer severe consequences, including ongoing pain, medical bills and even disabilities. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help injured employees protect their rights and seek the benefits they deserve.

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