Workplace dangers lurk in the most unlikely places. As an employer, you should be able to notice potential workplace dangers and mitigate them through safety policies and other measures to ensure the safety of your employees. As an employee, you need to learn and practice all safety measures to protect yourself from workplace dangers. Here are some of the common workplace dangers that you need to know, according to a renowned workers’ compensation attorney.
Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Just like office injuries, harmful chemicals pose a direct danger to your health, more so if you are exposed to these harmful substances without taking the appropriate precautionary measures. Exposure to chemical elements can lead to several health conditions, including organ failure, cancer, and death. Employees can be exposed to different types of harmful chemicals as they deliver on their daily tasks. These chemicals are categorized into classes depending on how they affect the body. These classes are:
Irritants
When irritant chemicals come into contact with your skin, they cause reversible inflammation in the area of contact. Strong solvents are some of the common chemical irritants.
Corrosives
Corrosive chemicals are dangerous. They cause irreversible harm when they come in contact with your skin or any other part of your body. Hydrochloric acid is one of the most common corrosives.
Sensitizers
Sensitizers often cause an allergic reaction when you are exposed to them. Isocyanate is one of the common chemicals in this category.
Teratogens
Women employees who are exposed to teratogens can develop birth complications and defects. Thalidomide is one of the most popular teratogens found in workplaces.
Carcinogens
Carcinogens are chemicals that encourage malignant growth within the body cells. They have a high potential of causing cancer. Asbestos is one of the most popular carcinogens in workplaces.
Mutagens
Exposure to mutagens often results in negative and unwanted gene mutations. It can also damage your chromosomes. Benzene is one of the most common mutagens found in workplaces.
Chemical exposure at workplaces is unlike any other workplace danger. They are gradual and have far-reaching effects on your body. You can be exposed to these chemicals in many ways, including through inhaling, skin contact, injection, and ingestion. You need to observe the highest safety standards if you work in an environment that is likely to be exposed to any of these chemicals.
Ergonomic Injuries
Since office work requires you to remain seated for long periods, it may cause posture-related injuries and ergonomic strains due to repetitive motions. Like chemical dangers, you might not detect ergonomic injuries early. It is prudent for you to find ergonomic chairs and adjustable tables to accommodate different sitting positions. Use OSHA eTool ergonomic guidelines to set up your workstation.
Slips and Falls
You've probably slipped, tripped, or fallen, at least once in your workplace. This is often a result of exposed cords, wet floors, spills, unstable work areas, clutter, and loose rugs. Poor weather conditions like snow and heavy rain increase the frequency of trips, slips, and falls on exterior ramps, walkaways, exit areas, and parking areas. You need to ensure your work area is always clean and tidy. Organize indoor furnishing, declutter your workplace and dry all surfaces. Keep the entire walkaway clean and clear to prevent tripping.
Fire Danger
A fire accident is one of the common workplace dangers today. Office fires can be caused by defective power chords, safety heaters, and other electrical appliances. You need to inspect your power cords regularly for signs of wear and tear. You should also avoid overloading your power outlets.
These are some workplace dangers and what to watch out for to prevent developing medical conditions and accidents that could lead to injuries. If you get injured or develop a medical condition because of these workplace dangers, you should consider filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you need legal assistance with this, call The Law Offices of Alex Bonilla, P.C., for a San Francisco workers’ compensation attorney, at (415) 761-3171 or email the company at alex@bonilla-law.com or visit the company's offices at 1390 MARKET ST, STE 200, SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94102-5404.
