When you clock in for work, your main concern should not be workplace accidents or hazards. Nevertheless, workplace hazards are a reality that can’t be ignored. We’re here to shed some light on the top risks you may encounter while on the job and to offer seasoned advice on what to do if you or a loved one finds yourself in a pinch.
But if you’d rather get this information from an experienced New York construction accident attorney directly, please call Schwartzapfel Lawyers at 516-342-2200 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation today.
Workplace Hazards To Be Aware Of
Work is more than just water-cooler chatter and endless meetings; it also comes with its own set of hazards. Recognizing and addressing these is vital for employee well-being and overall workplace health.
So, let’s jump into the most common workplace hazards lurking around your office, warehouse, or construction site.
Slips, Trips, And Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are still the undisputed king of common workplace hazards. From a rogue cable to a puddle of spilled coffee, the office is a minefield for minor mishaps with potentially severe consequences. Employers need to get ahead of these health hazards through regular safety audits and risk assessments.
If you or a loved one has slipped and fallen on the job, you have a limited time to collect all the money and benefits you are entitled to. Call 516-342-2200 now or visit us online and protect your financial future starting today!
Electrical Hazards
We’re not discussing the static shock you get during winter or dry climates — we’re talking about live wires, malfunctioning equipment, and other electrical safety nightmares that can result in serious injuries and even death.
To mitigate these risks, organizations should adhere to occupational safety protocols by maintaining their electrical systems and providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Fire Hazards
A close second on the list, fire hazards are especially concerning in environments containing flammable materials. Inadequate safety precautions, like poorly installed fire alarms and unmarked escape routes, are disasters waiting to happen.
Safety training focusing on fire drills and the proper use of fire extinguishers can help prevent catastrophic events in the face of such safety hazards.
For more on this and related subjects, please call Schwartzapfel Lawyers now at 516-342-2200 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation today!
Confined Spaces
Working in confined spaces ramps up the safety risks, especially when hazardous or toxic chemicals are involved. Without appropriate safety measures and PPE, these environments can turn into death traps. Employers need to provide specialized training to anyone operating in such work areas.
Physical Hazards
Be it a frayed electrical cord, malfunctioning machinery, or a rogue forklift at a construction site, physical hazards can be present in virtually all work environments. Thus, employers must follow established safety protocols to manage these risks, which may include regular inspections and immediate action to remove and/or repair any dangerous elements.
Ergonomic Hazards
Here, we’re talking about musculoskeletal disorders, repetitive stress injuries, and all those long-term health effects that make your chiropractor rich. Employers should consider incorporating ergonomic solutions like sit-stand desks and adequate lighting to improve working conditions.
Chemical Hazards
Chemicals clean our floors and propel our rocket ships but can also wreak havoc when mishandled. We’re referring to solvents, pesticides, and other materials that can be as damaging as they are useful.
Proper labeling and storage are key to handling these substances safely. If you find yourself unsure of a container’s contents, consult safety data sheets or qualified professionals for advice. PPE, or personal protective equipment, should be available for any activities involving chemical hazards.
Biological Hazards
Think bodily fluids, bacteria, and similar substances. These biological hazards can pop up in your work environment — especially if you’re in healthcare or sanitation. As such, following safety protocols and wearing the appropriate protective gear is crucial to keep these hazards at bay. And let’s not forget the importance of good hygiene practices.
For more on this and related subjects, call Schwartzapfel Lawyers now at 516-342-2200 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation and/or case evaluation. Don’t wait! Your future is too important to leave to chance. Instead, act now and have Schwartzapfel Lawyers fight for you!
Asbestos
While it may sound like a mythical monster, asbestos is a very real and hazardous material that’s been linked to serious health conditions like cancer. Buildings constructed before 2,000 are especially prone to asbestos. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct regular asbestos surveys as a part of risk assessment in older work areas.
Noise
Decibel danger is not just a concern at your favorite weekend music festival. Workplaces with loud noise — think construction sites or manufacturing plants — pose risks of hearing loss. Employers need to limit exposure and provide ear protection as a part of occupational safety measures.
Don’t let negligence cost you your health and happiness. Instead, call Schwartzapfel Lawyers at 516-342-2200 and allow us the honor and privilege of fighting for you!
What Should You Do If You’re Injured On The Job?
In the unfortunate event that you’ve experienced an injury or illness at your workplace, it’s imperative to know your next steps. Let’s unravel the often-complicated path to securing workers’ compensation benefits and ensuring your well-being.
Seek Immediate Medical Care
Your health is nonnegotiable. If you haven’t already received medical treatment, go get it, pronto. And when you do, make sure to inform your healthcare provider that your condition is work-related. They’ll file medical reports accordingly, which could be instrumental if your case gets disputed down the line.
Notify Your Employer
While your instinct might be to tough it out or brush it under the rug, you shouldn’t do this. Why? Because within (30) days of your injury, you’re obliged to inform your employer — in writing — about the incident. Note: You should include when, where, and how the injury occurred in this writing. And remember: The clock is ticking, and any delay could jeopardize the success of your claim.
As such, you must not wait until it’s too late. To protect your tomorrow, you must act today!
Contact Schwartzapfel Lawyers
Once you’re medically stable, it’s highly recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney like those at Schwartzapfel Lawyers. They will help ensure that your rights are maintained throughout the entire claims process and will fight for you every step of the way.
Legal assistance is particularly helpful when it comes to navigating the complexities of workers’ comp regulations and could significantly impact the benefits you’re entitled to. You may even receive a satisfactory settlement without any additional hassle. That’s why it’s so important to call 516-342-2200 to evaluate your options today.
File The Right Forms
Reach out to the Workers’ Compensation Board at 877-632-4996 for assistance and to get the ball rolling on your claim. File an Employee Claim (Form C-3) as soon as you can. This is the official way to notify the Board of your workplace injury or illness.
Note: If this isn’t your first experience with this particular injury, it’s likely that you’ll also need to file a Limited Release of Health Information (Form C-3.3). Here and elsewhere, a qualified workers’ comp attorney can steer you in the right direction.
Handling Medical Bills
You might be wondering who’s going to pick up the tab for your treatment. Well, you’re in luck; you shouldn’t have to pay for any of it. That responsibility falls on the insurer unless the Board decides otherwise. If you have any travel expenses related to your treatment, keep those receipts. You could get reimbursed through Form C-257.
Choose Your Healthcare Provider Wisely
You generally have the liberty to choose any healthcare provider, provided they’re authorized by the Board. However, if your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer has a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), you’ll need to start there for your initial treatment.
Monetary Compensation For Lost Wages
If your injury affects your capacity to work, you could be entitled to a portion of your lost wages. You can also opt for legal representation, though it’s not mandatory. Any fees incurred will likely be deducted from your lost wages award.
Additional Support And Resources
Getting back on your feet — both metaphorically and literally — may require more than just medical attention. The Board offers vocational rehabilitation counselors and social workers for added support. And if you’re worried about becoming dependent on prescription pain meds, there’s help available via NYS OASAS HOPE line at 877-846-7369.
After The Claim Is Accepted
Once your claim is accepted, your healthcare providers will likely be compensated, and your lost wage benefits will likely commence. If there are any disputes, the Board can guide you through the resolution process and may request additional information.
Being injured on the job doesn’t just affect your physical health, as it also poses serious financial and legal risks. Understanding your responsibilities and the resources available to you are crucial for effectively working your way through this challenging period.
After all, just because accidents happen doesn’t mean you have to face the aftermath alone. Nor should you. Instead, trust award-winning law firms like Schwartzapfel Lawyers to do the heavy lifting for you while you focus on what’s most important: getting better.
Don’t Navigate The Legal Maze Alone
If you or a loved one is the victim of a workplace hazard, you shouldn’t just “deal with it” or “see how it goes.” Your well-being is too important to gamble with. At Schwartzapfel Lawyers, we’re seasoned professionals you can depend on in high-stakes situations like these.
Your safety and well-being are nonnegotiable. So, why leave anything to chance? Especially when you don’t have to. Instead, reach out to Schwartzapfel Lawyers at 516-342-2200 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation and hear how you can secure all the money and benefits you’re entitled to.
Call now!
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this page should be considered legal advice. You should seek the appropriate counsel your situation requires. For more information, call 1-516-342-2200 now!
Sources:
Schwartzapfel Lawyers, P.C. | Fighting For You
You were injured at work. What now? | Workers’ Compensation Board
Individuals’ Right under HIPAA to Access their Health Information | HHS.gov
Preferred Provider Organization Frequently Asked Questions | Workers’ Compensation Board
