At work we encounter many hazards and hazards that can cause injury. When an employee is hurt on the job, they have two options: file a workers’ compensation claim or take action now to protect themselves from a lawsuit. Employers are concerned that if workers file a claim they won’t come back to work, but workers should know that if they file a claim they can still get medical care and unemployment insurance. If they don’t file a claim, they may also be at risk for a lawsuit from their employer. In addition to the possibility of being sued, there are many hazards on the job that could cause severe injury or even death.The following is a list of some common workplace hazards and first aid tips for dealing with them if they happen to you or a co-worker on the job:

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, Trips, and Falls account for about 80% of all workplace injuries. Slips and Trips happen when workers lose their footing or trip over an object. Falls can happen when a worker is working on a high place or at the end of a high ladder.

To prevent these types of injuries, always use the proper safety gear. For example, you should wear steel-toed boots when working on a construction site. You should also have a hard hat, safety goggles, and earplugs.

If you do trip or fall, you should get up quickly and sit or stand in a safe place. If you feel like you may pass out, sit down in a chair and cover your head with your arms. If you can’t get up, call for help.

Next, you should assess your injuries. You should seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident. If you can’t get to a doctor, you can use first aid at home to care for your injuries. You should call your employer to report the accident, too.

Carrying Heavy Loads

If you are required to carry heavy loads, you should be careful. You should know your limits and be able to lift safely. If you are lifting a load, don’t try to lift more than you can handle. Lifting a heavy load puts your back at risk for injury.

You can use a hoist to lift heavy loads. When unloading a heavy load, use a forklift or crane. If you must carry a load, be sure to use proper lifting techniques. You should bend at your knees and lift with your legs, not your back. You should also use a sling to carry a heavy load that may fall.

If you must carry a load in your arms, bend your arms at the elbow and use your shoulders to lift. You should bend your knees and lean slightly forward, keeping your back straight.

If you are lifting a load, you should always use a safety belt and work gloves. You should use a tarp or a large cart to prevent the load from falling on your leg.

Electric Shock and Scaffolding Falling

Electric shock is one of the most common workplace accidents. To prevent injuries, you should always use the proper safety gear. You should wear heavy-duty rubber gloves when working on a live circuit or exposed wires. You should also wear heavy-duty rubber or plastic boots. When working on a ladder, always wear a safety harness. If you are working on a roof, wear a helmet with a fall-protection device.

To prevent injuries due to falling objects, you should use safety nets. For high falls, you should use fall arrestors. Both of these devices are used in the mining industry.

If you are working on an elevated platform, like a rooftop, you should always use a safety belt when working high above the ground. If the platform you are working on is made from wood, you should put a safety net under it.

Chemicals and Infections

If you work with chemicals, you should wear proper protective gear. You should wear a mask and gloves if you are mixing chemicals or handling toxic substances. You should wear a dust mask when working with dry substances. You should also cover your skin with clothing and eyewear that is impervious to chemicals.

If you are exposed to infections, you should get medical attention immediately. You should also inform your employer of the incident.

If you are at risk for contracting an infection, you should use a special cleaning product, like bleach, to kill germs. You should also be sure to wash your hands frequently and change your gloves frequently.

If you are a worker who has suffered an injury on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. If you file a claim, you should keep records of your medical treatments. You should also keep a record of your missed work and any restrictions that were put on your job. If your employer doesn’t pay you, you should file a workers’ compensation claim.

Conclusion

Workers’ compensation is supposed to be a no-fault insurance program that provides medical care and income to workers who have suffered injuries on the job. However, many employers fail to provide adequate benefits to injured workers. If you have suffered an injury on the job, you may be entitled to benefits. You should file a claim as soon as possible to receive your benefits.