There are risks and hazards associated with all occupations, and it’s not only the employer who is responsible for making the workplace a safe environment to be in. Employees are just as accountable for safety in the workplace and understanding the risks, and different accidents that can occur that plays a big part in lowering any risk. Many of the accidents that occur are very serious, which makes it all the more important for everyone to take the right precautions. If you want to know more about potential industrial accidents here are six of the most common.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
A high percentage of workplace injuries fall into this category. They are particularly common in industrial environments. Injuries resulting from a slip, trip or fall include broken bones, cuts, and lacerations, pulled muscles, sprains, head and back injuries. These injuries can occur because of wet or oily surfaces, occasional spills, weather hazards, worn, loose or inappropriate flooring.
Poor lighting, uncovered cables, and clutter can also be reasons for falls. Providing employees with the correct footwear, encouraging good housekeeping practices and the right type of flooring can reduce this type of accident. “It’s best to speak with a specialist about the best floor for your needs as it can be an expensive change if it doesn’t fit its purpose,” added a flooring company in Sussex.
Crashes and Collisions
It’s common to find vehicles of all shapes and sizes in an industrial setting. Accidents involving cars, lorries or forklift trucks can be very serious. It’s therefore essential to ensure all employees wear their seatbelts and training is provided with regards to safety procedures.
Cuts and Lacerations
In an industrial setting, there is a range of different tools and equipment that can cause cuts and lacerations. The most common causes of injury are lack of proper training, inadequate safety procedures and not wearing the right personal protection.
Many workplace accidents and injuries are preventable. However, if you’ve been injured through no fault of your own, it is possible for you to claim compensation. There are legal firms, such as The Compensation Experts, that specialize in this type of claim.
Inhaling Toxic Fumes
If you work with hazardous chemicals, you need to be aware of skin or eye reactions. More serious injuries are also possible if the correct protective equipment isn’t worn. Exposure to chemicals during industrial processes as well as how they’re contained and labeled is a real risk for anyone working in the chemical industry. Even cleaning products can pose a threat when not stored or used in the right way.
Whenever hazardous chemicals are being handled, it’s important that workers wear proper protective gear. A quality hazmat suit for sale, one which is both durable and acts as a barrier to most chemicals, is certainly a wise investment.
Fire and Explosions
These can be caused by faulty gas lines, incorrectly stored combustible materials, open flames or poor pipefitting. Injuries include damage to your respiratory system, burns, and disfigurement. To reduce the risk of injury, there should be a clearly communicated evacuation plan and effective alert system to let everyone know of a hazard and emergency situation.
Vibration White Finger Syndrome
Vibration white finger syndrome is a very painful and sometimes disabling condition of the fingers, hands, and arms. It is caused by vibration from power tools and other types of equipment. Symptoms start with a tingling sensation in the fingers, often accompanied by numbness. Following on from this the fingers become white and swollen when cold and red and painful when warm. There is a diminishing feeling in the fingers together with a loss of strength and grip in the hands.
Most industrial accidents can be prevented as long as a holistic approach is taken to workplace safety. The proper protective equipment should be provided, employees should have adequate training, and industrial facilities should comply with safety regulations.
Shift Frequency © 2019 – Educational material