Injury Prevention Tips

Injury Prevention Tips

In a recent year, 2.6 million workers were injured or became ill while on the job. Although often preventable, workers are placed in unsafe situations daily. 

While it is true that some workers are more prone to injuries than others, it is ultimately the responsibility of employers to implement safety measures to protect employees.

If you have suffered a workplace injury, you may be wondering how to prevent future injuries. Pyle Law is here to offer injury prevention tips so that you can stay safe once your return to the workforce.

What Are Your Rights as a Worker?

Every worker has the right to work in a safe environment. Employers are responsible for providing such an environment to their employees, keeping the workplace free from hazards. Employees have the following rights:

• To receive workplace safety and health training in a language they comprehend
• To work on machines that are safe
• To receive required safety equipment
• To be protected from toxic chemicals

• To request an OSHA inspection and speak to the inspector
• To report an injury or illness and get copies of their medical records
• To review records of work-related injuries and illnesses
• To see the results of tests taken to find workplace hazards

If you have been injured at work, a workers’ compensation attorney will be able to assess your situation and make recommendations on how to proceed with your case.

Ways to Prevent Injuries

Many accidents can be prevented by implementing the following:

• Be aware of what elements in your environment could cause injuries.
• Look for ways to reduce hazards
• Report unsafe practices to your supervisor
• Be sure to clean up your workspace 
• Be sure to take breaks and move around periodically during the day
• Set up your workstation focusing on ergonomics (i.e., your computer should be level with your line of vision so that you don’t crane your neck looking down)
• Use safe lifting techniques:

• • Lift from a lower position
  • Keep the load close to your body.
  • Don’t twist while lifting.
  • Use a staggered stance—one foot is in front of the other, hip-width apart
• Utilize proper safety equipment, i.e., earplugs, safety goggles, masks
• Be involved in safety prevention and offer your thoughts on how to make your workplace safer
• Take part in OSHA training and other safety programs

Ultimately, as an employee, you do want to take safeguards to prevent injuries on the job. You cannot rely on your employer to put safety standards in place. Employers are not performing the tasks of your job, so they will not have the same insight that you would have to prevent injuries.

A Kansas Workers’ Compensation Attorney Devoted to You

Millions of workers have been affected by on-the-job injuries. Even taking all necessary precautions, workplace injuries can still take place. If you have been injured, know that it is not your fault. 

Attorney Pyle has experience representing people who were injured in the scope of their employment. He is ready to put his knowledge and experience to work for you. Contact Pyle Law to schedule your free consultation.