National Stand-Down focuses on workplace injuries and fatal falls

On Behalf of | Sep 15, 2020 | Workplace Injuries

This is the week of the National Stand-Down of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. This year the goal is to remind employers and employees in Oklahoma and across the country of the dangers of working at heights. Numbers provided by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics indicate that falls from elevated workplaces remain the primary cause of deaths and workplace injuries in the construction industry.

During this awareness campaign, safety authorities want construction companies to examine and evaluate existing fall protection regulations and analyze unique risks that threaten their employees’ safety. The aim is to identify aspects of the existing safety plans that need revision. They must identify the most likely circumstances and locations where falls are likely to happen.

The next step is to evaluate the formal safety training protocols, ensuring that existing and new employees receive the necessary training. Training must include the proper use of fall arrest equipment and the importance of inspecting the personal protective equipment before doing any work at elevated levels. OSHA urges employers to include their employees in reviewing the company’s safety protocols, as they are the ones who risk their lives.

Despite the most effective safety plans, the slightest mistake could cause accidents that cause death or workplace injuries. Although lost wages and mounting medical bills can become overwhelming, workers’ compensation benefits will provide financial relief. Many construction workers in Oklahoma choose to seek the support and guidance of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to navigate benefit claims proceedings for them. The help of legal counsel will increase the injured worker’s chances of receiving maximum applicable benefits.