Caught In/Between Accidents
November 29, 2017
Avoiding workplace injuries can be challenging due to many unforeseen circumstances. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), injuries that involve being caught in between machinery and objects are one of the most fatal hazards at construction sites. Being caught between a piece of heavy machinery or being in the swing radius of a crane can too easily happen. Implementing the following tips can help prevent caught in/between accidents from occurring on jobsites.
Practicing Workplace Safety
It is critical for workers to identify potential hazards at their workplace and how to avoid them. All jobsites should have an OSHA certified worker present to perform a site analysis and assess workplace hazards. Workers should be aware of the protection equipment needed to safely perform a job function. However, workers must understand that hazards change and ensure they are practicing safe procedures as their workload progresses. Employees working with machinery must use extra precaution as there is a greater risk for injury. Safety guards should be checked and adjusted accordingly before proceeding. Workers are easily injured by moving parts, such as pulleys, belts, rotating shafts, or gears, especially if they wear loose fitting clothing or fail to wear the proper safety gear needed for a job.
Another essential task of practicing workplace safety is maintaining distance from machinery. Heavy machine operators can experience blind spots or focus on a task at hand, not noticing nearby pedestrians until it is too late. It is critical to maintain a safe distance from operating machinery to avoid getting pinned between equipment and a stationary object. Employees should also avoid putting themselves in the swing radius of rotating equipment. If a machine needs to be approached, the worker must make eye contact and signal the equipment operator before moving closer. If a worker does not notify a rotating crane operator before approaching, he could get pinned in a fatal situation very quickly. Workers should always make the operator aware of their nearby presence.
Barricades are another helpful safety feature to keep pedestrians out of potential injury. Barricades should never be shifted or moved without prior approval. Pedestrians should avoid walking in the designated area, even if the area appears safe. If barricades are not available, caution tape can be utilized to tape off an unsafe area, such as the swing area of a crane. Workers should report damaged, misplaced, or loose barriers immediately to avoid potential injuries for themselves and other coworkers. In addition, workers should always keep an eye on overhead loads from cranes. A worker who fails to maintain a safe distance from loads will risk getting caught between the load and its final placement.
Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Fight for Victims of Workplace Accidents
If you have been injured on the job, you have a right to compensate for your pain and suffering. The knowledgeable Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton have spent over 30 years helping victims suffering from workplace injuries. Having a dedicated lawyer on your side can be critical to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We serve clients throughout Maryland and have offices in Columbia, Glen Burnie, Towson, and Baltimore. Call us today for a consultation at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or submit an online inquiry.
