Our last blog post discussed what to do if you recognize a hazardous condition at your place of employment. You might wonder if there are certain requirements for a condition to be a “hazard.” According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a “hazard” is a condition or activity that, if left uncontrolled, can result in an injury or illness.
The best way to prevent serious injuries and fatalities in the workplace is to identify, report and eliminate hazardous conditions. Certain working conditions lend themselves to a greater risk of injuries, including:
· Jobs complex enough to require written instructions
· Jobs in which one simple human error could lead to a severe accident or injury
· Jobs with a potential to cause severe or disabling injuries or illnesses
· Jobs that have undergone changes in processes or procedures
If there are inherently hazardous aspects of your job, your employer should provide you with safety equipment to minimize your risk of injury. These protective measures can include respirators, hearing protection, hard hats, protective clothing and safety glasses.
A safer workplace adds value to the business, your job and can prolong your life.
Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C. – New Orleans injury attorneys