Every year, thousands of injuries and accidents happen in the workplace. There’s no saying when it can happen, but employees can be assured that a system in place protects them when that occurs. From the perspective of the business, it is a serious matter that can result in legal problems.
One cannot predict what can happen during work hours, so it is best to always be prepared. You should know what possible accidents can occur and how to prevent them. Similarly, employees need to be properly compensated for injuries that happen while on the job.
Machinery Accidents
Studies by the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that employees that operate heavy machinery result in 18,000 injuries, including amputations and abrasions each year. Sometimes, limbs or fingers can get caught while they work on the equipment. This is especially true for businesses like construction companies that use dangerous equipment. It causes lost parts, blindness, and even worse scenarios.
Because this equipment is vital to the business, it cannot be easily replaced. What you can do to prevent this is to ensure that every employee is informed of the proper way to use them. Aside from that, tasks are best done in pairs, so you have an extra pair of eyes that can respond.
As a company, the best way to compensate your employees is to cover their medical costs. With machinery accidents, you should also conduct an investigation to identify whether the equipment is faulty. There is the possibility that a malfunction caused the accident. You should also try to see if the employee was properly trained and if the negligence of a superior caused it.
Vehicle Accidents
For company vehicles, it is hard to control what happens to them on the road. Some drivers can be quite reckless and don’t pay too much attention to whether they are going. Those who regularly drive as part of their job are at a higher risk because they often have to drive even if the circumstances are not ideal. This includes driving at night or in bad weather.
Employers should make it a point to carefully evaluate those applying for driving jobs. If the person has a history of poor driving habits, they put not just themselves at risk but also other employees that may be accompanying him. Make it a point to regularly maintain your vehicles to avoid crashes on the road.
Another thing that companies should consider is the stress of the workload. While it is part of the time, workers should be forced to drive when exhausted or tired. You need to set reasonable work hours and have multiple drivers work in shifts.
Accidents that occur when they before or after they clock in are not covered by the company. Their compensation covers those that happen while on duty. You may also have to pursue charges against the other vehicles, so make sure that you have a good car accident attorney, especially if driving is an essential part of your business.
Fire-Related
One of the most dangerous accidents that can occur in the workplace is fires and explosions. Statistics say that the most common causes of non-residential fires are a result of cooking, but it can happen to any company regardless of the industry. This can be caused by gas leaks, faulty wiring, and overheating equipment.
The best way to prevent accidents of this nature is to inspect your facilities and utilities regularly. On top of that, employees have to be trained with fire drills. They have to know what to do and where to go in case of a fire. Company buildings and offices are legally required to have fire exits that are accessible and easy-to-identify.
If the fire was a result of negligence, you could expect the employee to file a complaint. Companies need to act appropriately and provide the medical needs for injuries sustained in the incident. Since incidents like this can be costly, every business should have an employers’ liability insurance to cover the expenses.
If your employee has gotten into an accident while working, you should provide them with the appropriate and immediate assistance. Health and safety should be your top priority, especially among those working for you. Failure to compensate them can result in further problems that can harm and ruin your reputation and business.
However, it would be best if you focused your attention on prevention rather than compensation. Providing proper protective gear, equipment, and training to employees can prevent all of this. You can also apply other measures to ensure that accidents don’t happen.
