The holiday season is one of the jolliest times of the year, but that does not mean it is without risk of injury. Companies tend to implement additional policies during the holiday season that might put you at risk of different injuries at the workplace.
Common Injuries to Watch Out For
Increase Production Goals- The year's final quarter usually causes businesses to push their employees to ramp up production to meet a specific deadline or goal. Amidst the mad dash of trying to keep up with demands, workers tend to become more reckless or disregard safety measures due to the added pressure to finish their work.
Decorations- Many businesses decide to place decorations around their office spaces to attract customers or liven up the spirits around the workspace. However, having an employee decorate the office or store can put them at risk of many types of accidents, including falling from ladders or roofs, items or boxes falling on top of workers, cuts and bruises caused by decorations, or slip and fall accidents due to tripping over wires.
Fire Hazards- If a business is not careful to ensure that their decorations follow fire code procedures, this can easily cause a catastrophic event that will cost thousands of dollars in destruction and damages. Make sure that decorations are plugged into the appropriate wall sockets and extension cords are not being overused. Christmas trees should not be placed near a fire or heat source, and always ensure it is being watered so it does not dry out.
Tips for Your Safety
As the holiday season quickly approaches, ensure safety for all workers by following these simple safety tips:
- Keep a close eye on children when using holiday decorations and other objects around the house.
- Take the time to ensure there is enough room to work for your ladder to complete work on elevated areas, roofs, or carports.
- When using a ladder, ensure the footing is stable.
- Make sure ladder lights are working correctly and that workers wear safety harnesses.
- Do not wear loose or transparent clothing that can be easily caught by items such as cords and nails or that cannot be easily removed in the event of an accident.
- Clean and maintain tools to prevent accidents or injuries.
When We Can Step In
There are several ways that an employer may be held liable if they allow an injury to occur or fail to take steps to keep the worker safe. Depending on the nature of the injury and if the workplace has the right equipment in place to deal with the emergency, they may be liable for up to an amount that is 100 percent of the injured employee's earnings. If you have been injured at your workplace due to your company's negligence, we are here to help.
Call our office today at (228) 231-3989 or fill out a quick form online. The attorneys at Gulf South Law Firm are prepared to fight for you.