Brian White | November 14, 2022 | Workplace Accidents
When it comes to personal injury claims, workplace injuries are some of the most common throughout Texas.
Occupational hazards, accidents, and negligence can contribute to bodily injuries and even death. If you’ve suffered a work-related injury in Houston, a personal injury attorney can work to hold the responsible parties accountable.
1. Injuries Caused By Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slip and fall accidents are some of the most prevalent workplace injuries in the United States. According to the National Safety Council, there were roughly 211,640 serious slip and fall injuries in 2020 and at least 805 fatalities due to these accidents.
Sadly, many working environments and industries expose workers to slippery and dangerous conditions.
Common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
- Wet conditions
- Spills
- Oily surfaces
- Environmental hazards
- Loose or poorly fitted rugs
Similarly, injuries that result from tripping can result from a variety of factors, such as:
- Poor lighting conditions
- Clutter and debris
- Uneven surfaces or walking areas
- Exposed cables and other hazards
- Wrinkled mats and carpets
- Miscellaneous objects
Many times, slips and trips can be directly attributed to employer negligence. If you suffer a slip and fall accident, you should consult a personal injury attorney to learn more about filing a claim and recovering your losses.
2. Machinery Accident Injuries
Throughout the Houston area, many people work in industrial professions. Carelessness and negligence can lead to accidents whenever workers use heavy machinery, power tools, and other hazardous equipment.
In many cases, equipment isn’t protected or is mishandled by untrained staff. Other times, poor maintenance can result in system malfunctions.
Common injuries include:
- Crushed extremities
- Severed fingers
- Burns
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
The best practice for Texas employers is to follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. Additionally, anyone who operates dangerous equipment should be trained and certified whenever applicable.
3. Vehicle-Related Injuries
Many jobs throughout Houston involve driving. From paramedics to commercial delivery drivers, thousands of Texans are paid to get behind the wheel.
Sadly, the roads can be dangerous places. Whenever workers become involved in traffic accidents, injuries abound.
In 2020 alone, there were 205,667 reported traffic accidents in Texas. Although drivers are expected to engage in safe driving, many crashes result from negligent drivers. In other cases, employers may be liable for improperly maintaining work vehicles.
4. Injuries from Fires and Explosions
Many high-risk jobs throughout the state involve fire hazards. When workers are near flammable conditions, accidents are bound to occur.
Typical jobs that are prone to fire injuries include:
- Kitchen and food service staff
- Chemical and industrial workers
- Firefighters
- Electricians
Volatile materials and gasses are often to blame for fires and explosions, but many workers also sustain chemical burns. When employees mishandle equipment or flammable materials, accident risks can skyrocket.
According to OSHA, workplace fires and explosions account for roughly 5,000 injuries yearly, with hundreds of preventable casualties resulting from these accidents.
5. Physical Stress
Many jobs require workers to engage in repetitive motions, sit in uncomfortable positions, or lift heavy objects. Injuries can happen whenever the body is overextended from physically demanding factors.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that over one million workers suffer from back injuries every year.
6. Hearing Loss
Industrial workers are often exposed to loud noises. Whenever decibels reach a certain level, the ears can suffer temporary or permanent hearing loss.
Texas employers must engage in ear safety whenever workers work in environments with noises from machines, tools, and other loud objects.
7. Electrical Injuries
Electrical components are everywhere, from kitchens to construction sites. As such, thousands of workplace injuries occur each year from electrical-related accidents.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics statistics, roughly 5,620 electrical injuries occurred between 2018 and 2020. Electricians, construction workers, and maintenance staff are most at risk for these accidents.
Contact a Houston Personal Injury Lawyer for Help After a Workplace Accident
If you’ve suffered any of these common workplace injuries or any other harm on the job, contact an experienced Houston personal injury attorney for help. They’ll help you identify your legal options for compensation, such as a workers’ compensation claim for benefits or a personal injury case.
For more information, contact the Houston workplace accident law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers by calling (713) 500-5000.
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