Slip and fall accidents are a persistent issue in many workplaces. It often leads to severe injuries and substantial financial strain. Incidents of slips and falls can occur due to various factors, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, etc. Even inadequate lighting can also lead to occupational hazards.
In this post, we will delve into the primary causes of slip and fall accidents in the workplace, explore effective prevention strategies, and discuss the rights of employees suffering from workplace injuries. A clear understanding of these aspects will empower us to work towards creating safer work environments and help to prevent occupational accidents and associated injuries.
Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
A 2018 report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics stated that 240,000 workplace accidents happened due to slips, trips, and falls. Workplace slip and fall accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons. We can categorize them into two sections – environmental factors and human factors.
Environmental factors that may cause accidental slips or falls in the workplace are as follows:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Uneven surfaces
- Inadequate lighting
- Lack of warning signs
Human factors that may cause slip and fall accidents are as follows:
- Wearing inappropriate footwear
- Distractions like using the phone or talking to others while handling something
- Rushing can also lead to accidents
Tips to Prevent Slip and Fall Accidents
Both employers and employees have to play a critical role in preventing slip and fall accidents and creating a safer workplace. For example, employers need to:
- Install adequate lighting across the workplace
- Conduct routine inspections to monitor workplace safety
- Schedule thorough cleaning to remove debris and spills
- Install non-slip flooring materials, especially in areas prone to moisture or grease
- Place visible warning signs in areas like construction zones, wet floors, etc.
- Provide proper training regarding workplace safety
Employees, on the other hand, must:
- Follow safety guidelines at work
- Avoid distractions when conducting a job
- Report hazards
- Wear proper footwear
Employee Rights
Despite our best efforts to maintain a safe work environment, unforeseen circumstances or human error can still lead to accidents like slips and falls. Therefore, understanding the legal rights of employees is critical. It will help them to deal with workplace accidents better. Apart from seeking immediate medical attention after the accident, we recommend reporting the incident to the employer as early as possible. Filing a workers’ compensation claim within 30 days of the accident is also advised. Historically, it has been seen that workers at construction sites are prone to fall and slip. Due to this reason, construction site injury lawyers are the best suited to handle workplace slip and fall cases.
Braude Injury Lawyers is a seasoned personal injury law firm. We provide compassionate legal advice and representation to the victims of workplace injuries and strive to ensure they get maximum compensation for their suffering. Contact us now for a free consultation with an expert construction site injury lawyer. Let our experienced legal team fight for your rights and help you get what you deserve.