Fall Injuries at Work in Massachusetts
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) estimates that workplace fall accidents constitute approximately 15% of all workplace fatalities. However, these accidents can be prevented by identifying potential fall risks, developing mitigation strategies, and eliminating fall hazards.
There isn’t just one way in which a worker can be injured in a fall accident. A worker can be injured by tripping over an object or by slipping on a surface. He or she could also fall from an elevation or a ladder. In all of these cases, injuries can be serious enough to leave the worker with long term disabilities.
Causes of Worksite Falls
Trip and fall accidents usually occur when a worker trips on an object on the ground. Common causes of these accidents are poor illumination, clutter and debris on the floor, unprotected and unsecured equipment, uncovered cables, uneven steps, and visual obstructions.
Some slip and fall accidents occur when a person slips on water or grease on the floor. In other cases, a worker may slip on the floor because the floor is a non-traction surface and causes such slips. These accidents can be prevented if floors are manufactured out of high-traction, nonslip flooring and if liquid spills are cleaned immediately.
The risk of worksite falls from elevations can be minimized by using guardrails and providing workers with personal protection systems. Similarly, falls from ladders can be prevented by making sure that workers are trained in the correct ways of climbing up and down a ladder and making sure that the ladder has been positioned safely.
Injuries from Fall Accidents
Worksite falls typically result in fractures, broken bones, and neck injuries. In more severe cases, a fall accident may result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other long-term debilitating injuries. These injuries may leave the worker incapable of returning to work or returning to his or her former job, compounding the worker’s financial struggles after the accident.
Peter Ventura is a Massachusetts work injury lawyer representing workers who have been injured in workplace accidents in the Worcester region and across Massachusetts.
If you have been injured as a result of a fall at a workplace, Attorney Peter Ventura can investigate the facts of your case and pursue your legal rights against any and all responsible parties. To find out more about the ways in which a personal injury attorney with experience in workplace falls can help you recover financial compensation, contact the law firm of Peter Ventura, Attorney at Law for a free consultation.
Call 508-755-7535 to Discuss Your Case Personally with Attorney Peter Ventura
More Information
Fatal Work Accidents
Work Site Injuries
Massachusetts OSHA Violations
