Whether you work in the construction industry or in an office, it is important to understand the risks you face on the job. Many different hazards result in serious injuries, but falls are an especially concerning issue. In fact, workers in various fields fall down for a host of reasons, and it is vital to understand the different ways in which you could fall down.
Sometimes, inexperienced workers and those struggling from fatigue are especially likely to fall. However, fall-related accidents can affect any worker.
An overview of fall-related hazards
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health published information on fall-related hazards in the workplace. For example, many falls take place due to clutter and unstable or slippery surfaces. Improper ladder use can result in a fall, and some workers fall down due to openings in the wall or floor holes. For example, if someone is working on a roof and they do not see an opening, especially if there is snow or something else covering the opening, they could fall through and suffer a serious injury or even die.
The impact of fall-related accidents
Based on estimates, falls at work result in $70 billion in workers’ compensation and medical costs every year. If you fall down at work, you could lose the ability to perform your job duties, leading to lost wages and the inability to pay bills. Significant injuries, pain and immobility affect many victims, and some workers lose their lives after falling down.
If you sustained an injury in a fall-related accident at work, it is important to look into workers’ compensation.
