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Preventing amputation injuries on the job

On Behalf of | May 17, 2019 | Workplace Injuries |

One type of workplace injury in Minnesota that irrevocably changes lives in mere seconds involves amputations. Despite an increase in awareness and safety regulations, many construction and manufacturing workers still encounter hazards that increase the likelihood of them losing limbs while performing their jobs. Accidents that result in the loss of one or several limbs are not isolated to these sectors. Many retail, administrative, healthcare and other work environments contain hazardous equipment and expose workers to dangerous conditions that can result in accidents and amputation injuries.

Due to the seriousness of amputation injuries, victims often become permanently disabled and encounter challenging recoveries, lifestyle adjustments and a loss of employment/earning capacity. Some individuals and their families face mounting financial challenges from their trauma. Though amputation injuries do not happen as often as other types of less severe workplace trauma, it is still important for employees to take proper precautions to avoid them.

Learn proper protocol for performing job duties

Employees should stay current on workplace and equipment rules and follow proper protocol when performing their job duties. They should avoid horseplay and non-sanctioned work activities and report all accidents that occur. Employees should also familiarize themselves with the federal accident reporting regulations that OSHA mandates to ensure their employer’s compliance. The use of personal protection equipment and safety gear that fits well can help prevent minor injuries and lessen the severity of serious lacerations and amputation-type trauma.

Identify all potential hazards in the work environment

Though it is the employer’s responsibility to create a safe environment for its workers, work conditions change frequently, especially in the construction and manufacturing sectors. Employees should stay alert when on the job and watch for changing conditions and hazards that could lead to accidents. They should routinely inspect all work equipment and tools prior to use and label and report all defective items.

Workplace accidents are preventable, but it takes a conscious effort from both workers and their employers. Workplace accidents that result in trauma to employees regardless of negligence are often compensable under workers’ compensation.

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