On-the-job accidents and injuries can be a real danger to many New Jersey workers, whether they construct buildings, drive for a delivery service or write in an office. No matter the surrounding environment in which someone works, there are a range of potential slip, trip and fall hazards. While many people may think of this type of injury as common and minor, it’s important to note that 660 workers died in 2014 after falling from heights. Nearly 140 workers died on the job that same year from same-level falls.
It can be easy to miss slip-and-fall hazards, especially in a common workplace environment. In some cases, workers may assume that others will address the problem. While many people might be extra vigilant when working at an elevation, falls at the same level can be just as serious and even deadly. Workers can help to avoid these kinds of injuries by wearing appropriate shoes, keeping an eye out for small steps and other changes in elevation and avoiding cellphone use while walking.
Falls from a height are even more dangerous than falls at the same level. This is especially a problem when it comes to construction site jobs, which involves many raw and unfinished surfaces and large outdoor open areas. Of the 991 workers who lost their lives in the construction industry in 2016, 370 died after falling to a lower level.
Fall prevention technologies and equipment can be important in preventing dangerous workplace accidents and injuries. When such injuries occur, victims may face mounting medical bills. However, a workers’ compensation lawyer can provide guidance and representation to someone who has been hurt on the job.