Falls are one of the most common causes of injuries to workers in the U.S. What makes falls so dangerous is that they can essentially happen to anyone at any time. Nonetheless, there are some recognizable patterns in the causes of workplace falls.
Below are some of the most common causes of this type of workplace accident.
Poor lighting
Not all workplaces have the luxury of windows that bring in natural light. For example, some employees may work underground, making natural lighting impossible. Some businesses require high levels of privacy, meaning that windows have to be blocked off.
Interior lighting in work environments is crucial for safety, particularly for those operating heavy machinery. Without adequate lighting, workers cannot see what they are doing or where they are going. This makes falls inevitable.
Poor housekeeping
In any type of workplace, it is important that floors are kept clear. This means that there should be no tripping hazards. Some of the more common tripping hazards include trailing cables, boxes and other obstructions. These are especially dangerous when left near stairways. All workplaces should have procedures in place, such as safety audits, that help ensure that housekeeping is as good as it can be.
Other common causes of workplace falls
Falls can also be caused by:
- Failing to clean up spills
- Not providing workers with anti-slip footwear
- Floors that are in disrepair
A fall at work can lead to all sorts of injuries, and it can mean that you need to take time off. You likely won’t receive wages for this time off, but you may be able to receive workers’ compensation. This can provide partial wage compensation in addition to covering medical treatment. Seek legal guidance to discuss your options in more detail.
