Pennsylvania workers may benefit from learning more about how to prevent falls, as described by material published by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. According to OSHA, employees should be wearing the appropriate protection when working at least four above ground in general industry or at least six feet high in the construction industry. Some of the risks that exist at the workplace include holes in floors, unprotected wall openings and falling objects.
Employees also suffer injuries from misusing protection equipment, working on surfaces that are unstable or using ladders that were poorly positioned. Unprotected edges, openings and sides are common causes of falls that made lead to an employee suffering injuries ranging from simple sprains to concussions or even death. Employees working more than six feet above ground are advised to utilize fall arrest systems or guardrail systems or to construct floor hole covers when appropriate.
Employers are required by OSHA regulations to provide employees with a safe workplace. When falling hazards are a potential risk, employers may be expected to provide the proper safety and protection systems. Employers may also be required to provide employees with adequate training for properly using the protection systems and safety equipment. Aside from using fall prevention systems, employees are advised to ensure that ladders are safely positioned while in use.
Employees who are injured as a result of a workplace accident often benefit from consulting with legal counsel. Attorneys who have experience in workers’ compensation matters can help them prepare the required claims to recover the medical and wage benefits to which they are entitled. In some cases, if the injury was due to the negligence of a non-employer third party, it may be possible to pursue a personal injury lawsuit as well.
Source: OSHA, “Preventing Falls”, November 25, 2014