Some workplaces are more dangerous than others, but all jobs carry some inherent risks. That means that any employee could suffer a workplace injury with potentially life-altering consequences. A fall from a broken desk chair, for instance, can cause hip or back injuries that make it nearly impossible to stand or walk.
Knowing the risks can help you stay safe on the job. For that reason, we offer the following observations from an experienced Denver workers’ compensation lawyer.
Prepare for the Obvious Dangers
If you work with equipment like forklifts, you are probably aware that improper use can lead to serious injuries. You can be prepared by making sure that you understand how to operate the equipment and the problems to be aware of, not only for the operator but also those in the vicinity. For instance, you may be well aware of the blind spot issues when you’re operating a forklift, but you need to keep those limitations in mind if you are spotting for an operator or even walking nearby. You need to become an expert while at the same time assuming that everyone operating around you is either a novice or goofball who’s not paying attention. Practice defensive walking, just like you would defensive driving on the road. And, of course, always wear the appropriate safety gear.
If you drive as part of your job—even your own car—you face tremendous risks every time you get behind the wheel. Always take the time to adjust your mirrors and seat for maximum visibility and keep a vigilant watch for hazards posed by the actions of other drivers or conditions on the road.
Watch for Hidden Dangers
What you don’t see can hurt you. COVID-19 alerted people to the reality that work surfaces are often contaminated with viruses and bacteria. Even if the threat of that particular illness doesn’t concern you, wiping down keyboards, phones, coffee pot handles, doorknobs, and water faucets could prevent you from picking up a nasty intestinal bug.
If you can smell something wrong, it may be time to look to find the cause. Poor indoor air quality can lead to respiratory problems, eye irritation, and sometimes very serious health ailments. The culprits can range from mold to construction dust to toxic cleaners. Long-term exposure could even lead to cancer, lead poisoning, or other devastating medical conditions.
The most common hidden danger in most work environments is poor ergonomics. It is important to position and move your body in appropriate alignment all throughout the day. Failure to do can cause a host of potentially debilitating conditions including:
- Neck strain
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Back pain
- Tendonitis and bursitis
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Hip flexor strain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Piriformis syndrome
Poor ergonomics and repetitive motions can also lead to excessive fatigue which can compound existing injuries or make workers more likely to suffer a new injury. If these conditions result from job duties, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation relief even if your employer was not negligent in any way.
A Denver Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help if Workplace Dangers Caused Your Injuries or Illness
The Colorado workers’ compensation scheme is designed to help workers harmed by conditions in the workplace so they can recover and return to work stronger than ever. If you suffered injuries or illnesses that are connected with your workplace or job duties, a Denver workers’ compensation lawyer could help you obtain the benefits you deserve. Contact the knowledgeable team at Levine Law to learn how we could assist in your case.
