As a warehouse worker, there’s a good chance that you enjoy the fast paced environment in which you work. Along with this, you know that each and every day is unique.
With all this in mind, there is something else to consider: The warehouse industry can be extremely dangerous at times. For this reason, you always need to be on the lookout for safety hazards.
Your employer has the legal responsibility of keeping employees safe. If you have any reason to believe that this is not happening, don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with your supervisor or the HR department.
Here are some of the most common causes of warehouse injuries:
— Crush. This is when a person is crushed between two objects, such as a vehicle and a loading dock. Along with this, it’s important to note that heavy materials falling from above can also cause serious injury.
— Exposure to harmful substances. Depending on the type of warehouse, workers may be in constant contact with harmful substances, such as chemicals.
— Moving parts. Machines with moving parts can cause serious injury or even death. For instance, a body part could get stuck in a machine, thus resulting in an amputation.
— Falling objects. It’s noted above, but it’s worth touching on again. Objects are often stacked high in a warehouse setting. When done improperly, there is a greater chance that something could fall to the ground below.
If you are involved in any type of warehouse accident, there are three things you need to do:
— Receive immediate medical attention
— Make your company aware of the accident and your injuries
— Focus on your legal rights as an employee
While your health is most important, there will come a time when you need to learn more about your legal rights, as you may be able to receive compensation.
A workers’ compensation claim, for example, could be just what you need in order to receive money for your injuries. This compensation will last until you are able to return to work.
Warehouse workers always assume that nothing bad will ever happen to them, but there is no way of knowing what the future holds. An accident may be right around the corner.
