Preventing Workplace Injuries: Health Hazards vs. Safety Hazards
JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS
There are certain hazards in the workplace that can cause serious illnesses and injuries. Knowing the types of hazards that are in the workplace, and how to prevent them will keep more Pennsylvanians safe on the job. Our Pennsylvania workplace injury attorneys review the differences between health hazards and safety hazards and important questions to ask about each to keep you safe at work.
Health Hazards
Health hazards are categorized into five groups:
- Chemical – solvents, asbestos and other chemicals that cause illness
- Biological – viruses, molds and other living matter
- Physical – exposure to severe heat and cold, loud noise, radiation, vibration, etc.
- Ergonomics/Repetitive Strain – improper desk and chair alignment, slick surfaces and back strains
- Psychological – mental stress
Health hazards enter your body through breathing, swallowing, skin absorption, through open wounds or repetitive exposure to stress. These hazards can have an variety of affects on employees. Limiting exposure to these hazards involves a management crew dedicated to keeping employees safe and employees who follow proper procedures and protocols when near dangerous hazards.
Safety Hazards
Safety hazards come in a variety of forms and can include:
- Slips, trips and falls
- Being caught in or struck by moving objects or machines
- Explosions and fire
- Transportation-related accidents
- Crushing in confined spaces
- Violence
Safety hazards often come in healthcare, manufacturing, and construction settings but can occur in any workplace setting. Similar to health hazards, preventing workplace injuries and illnesses requires an involved management staff as well as employees dedicated to safety.
In the event you or someone you love is injured on the job, contact the workplace injury attorneys at Mednick, Mezyk and Kredo. Our experienced legal staff will meet with you to discuss your rights and review your next steps. Call us today at 888-807-WORK (9675) for a free consultation.
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