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Construction tools can be powerful and dangerous. However, even low-tech tools can put workers in danger if they are broken, defective or misused. Ladders are one example of basic construction equipment that can cause severe injuries to users. Because they are so common and simple, people often underestimate how dangerous they can be. However, the fact is that ladder accidents can be common and serious, so taking steps to prevent them is crucial. Conducting inspections Every tool workers use on a construction job should be inspected regularly, including ladders. In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires that a competent person inspect ladders periodically. As this article recommends, parties conducting the inspection should have ladder-specific training and experience. Further, they should thoroughly examine all parts, including ladder feet, rungs, rails and ropes for potential hazards. And the more often parties use a ladder, the more frequently someone should inspect it. Replacing broken ladders If parts of a ladder are broken or worn to such an extent that they create a safety risk, replacing them sooner rather than later will be crucial. You may be able to repair a ladder by replacing a single part, or you may need to stop using an unsafe ladder altogether and get a new one. In addition to putting individuals in danger, using any broken tool on a construction project can make the job more difficult and produce less desirable results. Using them properly Ladders are safe when people use them properly. Users should make sure they are stable before climbing them. They should be on level surfaces and at a safe angle. All rungs and spreaders should be locked into place. In most cases, users should not stand on the top stop, and they should make any adjustments to positions and heights while they are off the ladder. Inspecting, repairing and using ladders properly can keep workers safe. These precautions prevent catastrophic injuries that can result from ladder falls and other serious accidents on the job.

Having a window and access to fresh air at work is not just a desirable trait of an office location; it can be the difference between a safe work environment and a dangerous one. Proper ventilation is crucial in any workplace, but people often fail to recognize just how important it is until something goes very wrong. This was the case recently when a nitrogen leak resulted in the death of six workers and injuries to 11 more. Asphyxiation accidents The recent accident occurred at a poultry processing plant. As is common in these types of plants, the company uses liquid nitrogen for refrigeration. Under normal circumstances, liquid nitrogen is not dangerous. However, liquid nitrogen can vaporize and expand. If there is a large amount of it, the oxygen levels in a space can drop significantly, putting people at risk of asphyxiation. This situation can occur when there is a leak. Nitrogen does not have a color or smell that can alert people to a leak, which is why workplaces that use liquid nitrogen should have proper ventilation as well as monitoring systems in place. These measures are simple and can be highly effective at preventing tragic accidents. High cost of deficient ventilation When a workplace does not have adequate ventilation in confined or congested spaces, workers can be at risk. They could suffer the following injuries: Loss of oxygen Exposure to airborne toxins Elevated temperatures Burns from explosions Respiratory issues General discomfort Loss of concentration These conditions can result in acute or chronic injuries. In the worst cases, poor ventilation is fatal for employees. Whether there is nitrogen, smoke or other airborne contaminants in the workplace, employers across Maryland must install and maintain adequate, effective ventilation. This should be in addition to air quality monitoring systems. Employers who fail to take these precautions expose workers to preventable threats resulting in a workplace accident or illness.

Employees pay the price when productivity trumps safety at work Employers can hold workers to strict standards. Many will set goals, enforce workplace policies and dictate acceptable behaviors with the intention of maximizing productivity and profits. However, some go too far in these pursuits and ultimately endanger the lives and safety of workers. A big problem at a big company A recent report on injuries at Amazon warehouses reveals what can happen when companies put profit over people. The report found that for every 100 workers, 5.9 experienced an injury that resulted in lost time or modified duty. This number is 80 percent higher than the number of injuries reported at other warehouses, including Walmart and other competitors. Claims of unsafe work conditions have long plagued Amazon. And for years, it has topped lists of the most dangerous places to work. Several tools, still no fix In response to these findings, spokespeople from Amazon maintain that they offer a wide range of options with worker safety in mind. The company reportedly provides: Ergonomic programs Guided exercises Mechanical assistance equipment Nutrition and mental health guidance However, despite the myriad programs it offers, the company continues to see high numbers of injured workers. Part of this stems from the fact that the business continues to enforce aggressive productivity quotas. To meet these numbers, workers may not take the time to protect themselves and observe safe practices. Without a more comprehensive approach to making Amazon warehouses safer places to work, workers will likely continue to face threats to their safety. This situation can serve as a reminder that employers who do not make workplace safety a top priority are endangering employees. When job-related accidents happen, workers should know what legal rights they have and what compensation they may be eligible to collect.  Workers remain eligible for worker’s compensation benefit, no matter how long they have worked for an employer or experience and understanding of a particular job.

Staying safe on Maryland waterways this season Boating season is upon us, which means people are getting out on the waterways more and more across Maryland. Whether you work on the water in your profession or you are a recreational boater, now is an excellent time to revisit some crucial safety tips. Safety first to prevent boat accidents Being in or near the water can come with several risks, including drowning and getting injured by boating mechanisms. Thus, some of the ways you can stay safe this season include: Having and wearing appropriate floating devices and life jackets Refraining from using drugs or alcohol while on or around the water Performing regular boat maintenance Using lights and reflective clothing to ensure you are visible to others Obeying speed limits and wake restrictions Having the proper training to operate commercial or recreational vessels Avoiding distractions when navigating or directing a boat These tips can be crucial for everyone to remember, from seasoned marina workers to recreational boaters who occasionally head out to fish or ski. Working on the water If boating or working near the water is part of your job, you will also want to review your employer’s safety policies. If you are worried that your employer is not complying with water-related regulations or enforcing safe practices, you might file a complaint or take legal action if you suffer damages resulting from unsafe workplace conditions. Further, if you do suffer an accident on the job, know that there may be financial compensation available to help you recover. These benefits can be crucial for people who suffer brain injuries, slipping accidents and mechanical burns and for families of drowning victims. Practicing safety on Maryland waterways is vital for everyone, and now can be an excellent time to make sure you – and your boats – are ready. However, it should be noted that accidents on the water may be covered by different types of law, relating to the maritime issues.

Whether you work in construction, manufacturing or auto repair, you may regularly use powerful machines and equipment. And unfortunately, at any time, these devices can cause devastating injuries. Too often, workers suffer burns, amputations or even death due to defective or dangerous machines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identify accidents involving equipment are among the most common causes of traumatic workplace injuries. Thus, preventing these accidents must be a top priority for workers and employers. Preventing accidents as a worker If you work with heavy machinery, you can take the following precautions to stay safe on the job: Only operating equipment you have training and permission to use Immediately reporting any defects or broken components Shutting down machines that are not working properly Wearing protective gear like eye protection and gloves Ensuring there is adequate lighting Staying alert and visible on sites where others are using dangerous machines Keeping areas near the equipment clean These precautions can help you avoid accidents caused by human error and unexpected malfunctions. Preventing accidents as an employer Employers may not be the ones directly using or operating equipment on the job, but they can do plenty to make things safer for the workers who do. Employers would be wise to: Provide adequate training to all workers using machines Place signs warning of machine-related risks in conspicuous areas Conduct regular equipment inspections Perform maintenance and make repairs in a timely manner Comply with state and federal regulations when hiring and supervising workers Shut down equipment that poses a threat to workers Investigate all reports and complaints regarding defective or dangerous machines Employers who take these measures seriously make it easier for workers to avoid accidents with heavy machines. Taking action after an accident These measures can go a long way in preventing machine-related accidents on the job. However, accidents  can and do still happen. Additionally, in Maryland, the Worker’s Compensation Act does not require an injured worker prove someone else was at-fault or that there employer was negligent.  Rather, if an injury occurs arising out of and in the course of employment, an injured worker will be entitled to coverage for their injuries. If you or your loved one is involved in this type of incident, you should know what options you have regarding compensation and who may be liable. Was it a defective machine? Was someone else negligent? Under these circumstances, legal action can be crucial in protecting injured parties and others who may still be at risk. These protection extends to workers who may even think they made a mistake and an accident occurred, resulting in an injury.

Recovering from a workplace injury can be frustrating and difficult. There can be medications to take, activities to avoid and countless doctor visits to schedule. Once you get through all this and are well enough to return to work, the hardest part could thankfully be behind you. However, there could still be challenges you may need to overcome. Preparing for these can help you make this transition a little easier. Financial challenges Returning to work might be something you want to do, but often, it is something people need to do for financial reasons. In fact, according to one report, half of the people who return to work after a traumatic injury have medical debt. If a worker’s compensation claim is considered compensable, an injured worker is entitled to two thirds their average weekly wage tax free and coverage of their causally related medical expenses. Adjusting to disabilities, limitations A severe accident can leave you with chronic pain, limited mobility and other conditions that require some adjustments in your workplace. In some cases, your doctor may say that you can return to work with restrictions. For instance, you may only be able to perform light duty, or you may not be able to do things like lift, kneel or stand for extended periods. When you return to work, make sure you give a list of these restrictions to your employer. If they do not follow the doctor’s orders or pressure you to do something you don’t feel comfortable doing, you can consult an attorney to understand what is and is not permitted. Additionally, a hearing may be required should a dispute arise regarding work restrictions. Doubts and concerns You may not feel ready to go back to work. You might be worried that you cannot perform the way you used to, and you may not even want to work. These feelings are normal, but they can cause tremendous stress. To protect yourself, be sure you communicate with your doctor and your employer. Be clear with your restrictions and document any exchanges you have regarding your condition and work performance. You may also consult an attorney if you feel your return to work – and termination of workers’ compensation benefits – is premature. Going back to work after a severe accident can be challenging. However, you can better position yourself by knowing what to expect and what resources can help you through this experience. That considered, retaining an attorney prior a dispute arising can help ease the transition back to work and ensure the injured worker is protected.

When workplace accidents result in severe, life-changing injuries, people often want to know if someone could have prevented them. The unfortunate truth is that many work-related injuries are preventable with safety protocols, proper training and the use of protective equipment. But when these measures are not in place, the result could be catastrophic for workers. Multiple violations take a devastating toll on worker For instance, an employee at an agricultural processing plant suffered lacerations and partial leg amputation when he got stuck in a grain bin auger. Grain bin accidents are a real threat to agricultural workers. Sadly, they often result in tragic injuries or death. Making matters worse is the fact that many accidents involving workers in or around grain bins are preventable. In this case, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited the processing company for seven willful violations after the accident. The company failed to train workers properly, secure the space and comply with machine safety regulations. While reports note that the company understands where it failed and is taking steps to improve safety, seven previous inspections resulted in similar violations and fines. Thus, it will be interesting to see if this case sparks actual action to prevent future incidents. Workers pay the price for failed safety compliance Employers must take seriously their responsibility to train workers properly and keep work spaces safe. They must also supervise employees to be sure they comply with safety practices. When employers or others fail to take these steps, their negligence can result in a preventable accident. And it is often the workers who suffer the consequences in the form of an injury. Therefore, workers must take their own and co-workers safety seriously to help prevent injury, even if their employer does not act in their best interest. That said, Maryland law does not require an employer acted negligently for a worker to be covered under the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act.  When a person is injured on the job, whether it clearly be the fault of an employer not properly ensuring a safe working environment, or just an unexpected situation that led to an injury, workers should contact counsel to know and protect their rights.

For over a year, businesses across Maryland have had to adjust the way they operate to keep workers and clients safe in a pandemic. In that time, many companies have determined that what might have been a temporary need for employees to work remotely could be a savvy long-term arrangement. If you are one of the workers who telecommute regularly, you still remain covered by workers’ compensation laws. Work-from-home accidents While you may be more comfortable and relaxed working in your home, accidents can still happen. As one New York Times article notes, injuries involving back, wrist, neck and shoulder pain can be common among telecommuters. Workers’ compensation benefits are available to covered employees who suffer injuries like these in the course of and arising out of their employment. Factors to consider for compensable worker’s compensation clams include the following: The nature of working from home Does the worker sit in front of desk all day, or does she fabricate or have an at-home workshop? What actual activity was the worker engaged in at the time of the accident? Was the worker in their normal at-home workspace, or in another area of the home? Were they in a hallway by their office, or were they in their basement far from the home office? Was the remote work required or voluntary? What, if any, rules or instructions were provided as to the nature of the remote work? The nature of the accident: slip and fall, strain, or laceration? While these may be slightly different than claims involving a traditional workplace, the fact is that an employee hurt in the course of their employment can be eligible for compensation if they were at home. Challenges that complicate claims Telecommuters seeking benefits for a work injury can face some challenges in pursuing benefits, including proving that an accident occurred arising out of or in the course of a person’s employment. Thus, it can be crucial to take the following steps: Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible Retain documentation from medical visits Note the conditions of your workspace Record the details of an accident, including time, date and place These measures can make it easier to submit a successful claim for workers’ compensation benefits. Maryland employees have enough to worry about thanks to COVID-19, including lockdowns, financial challenges, and the concern of the health of their family. A workplace injury, even if at home, are just make matters that much worse. However, knowing that you can still be protected and covered for medical care and lost wages after an injury is critical for the times we are in.

Workers in Maryland’s food service industry face a significant amount of stress. They work a fast-paced and demanding job. On top of that, a number of workers in this field are new to the working world altogether. The average age of restaurant employees across the nation is 18 years old. The environment of restaurant work can be overwhelming for even the most experienced workers. Regardless of a worker’s experience in this industry, almost all restaurant workers face a high risk of suffering burn injuries on the job. Burn risks are almost everywhere in food service Injuries from burns are some of the most common work injuries that restaurant workers report, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And it is no wonder that this is the industry where most burn injuries occur. The risk is high primarily because of the many sources of heat and burn risks that workers come across in these workplaces, including, but not limited to: Deep fryers Hot food or beverage spills Ovens and grills Hot plates and steamers In a busy kitchen where speed is often of the utmost importance for all workers, the chance of an accident involving these objects only increases. Do not overlook the seriousness of burn injuries Some burns are minor. They can be incredibly painful, but they may only require some ointment, pain medication and bandages to heal. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Burns can be severe injuries that lead to many days out of work while workers recover. While most burns take roughly two to three weeks to heal, third-degree burns can take much longer. They also require much more care. Workers often face: Painful blisters Scarring Frequent risk of infections Permanent damage to skin cells Nerve damage Burns can also significantly limit one’s ability to move. Many injured individuals might have to seek physical therapy to regain movement after serious accidents. It is critical that workers never overlook the risk or severity of these injuries. Dealing with these injuries can be frightening, especially if workers worry about returning to work. But injured workers can recover workers’ compensation for burn injuries, which can help them focus entirely on healing.

It is not only construction work that involves risks to workers. The flipside of this industry – demolition – also puts workers at risk of occupational injuries. Construction and demolition workers face very similar risks on the worksite, but safety for demolition workers has recently received increased attention with a new change in safety standards. New criteria for demolition safety While the newly updated standards are for employers to maintain, workers should still be aware of them. The standard applies specifically to sites and projects with many employers – and therefore workers – interacting on the same site. The revised standards would require employers to: Establish clear roles regarding worksite safety Determine work plans and hazard management processes Inform all team members about how to handle hazards Reaffirm training standards and requirements Since construction projects and sites are constantly evolving, it is critical that safety standards are as well. However, that is one of the main risks workers face, and they must make sure they are fully aware of the hazards they face on the job to keep themselves safe. Beware of the risks In addition to the new safety standards, demolition workers must also make sure they are aware of the hazards they could face daily on the job, including: Electrical injuries from live wires Falling objects Falls from heights or ladders Exposure to loud noises Exposure to dangerous chemicals Even though demolishing a particular building or site is a necessary part of the workers’ jobs, it can create new hazards each day. Even if a risk is inherent or a part of the job, an injury resulting from such a known risk remains compensable under Workers’ Compensation. Workers do not have to show negligence of their employer in order to receive coverage for on-the-job injuries. Employers and their Insurers may state otherwise, but that is why it is important to consult an experienced Workers’ Compensation attorney to ensure your rights are protected.

We use electricity every day. We hardly give it a second thought at home, but it can pose considerable risks to workers on the job. It does not matter whether or not individuals work with electricity, they must ensure they do not overlook electrical hazards and the risk of injury that they present. Electrical hazards are a bigger risk than many think According to Safety + Health Magazine, there was a sharp increase in fatal electrical injuries just between 2017 and 2018 – with an increase of 17.7%. Workers could face a risk of fatal or serious injuries from: Electric shocks or electrocution Burns from contact with electrical fires or live wires Falls from contact or explosions involving electricity This risk is not confined to one industry. The study found that the risk increased for many different workers, including those in construction and manufacturing, but also in education and medical fields. Workers must be aware of these potential risks. After all, it seems that many employers overlook them, putting their workers in danger. Many employers failing to control hazardous energy Electrical hazards have the potential to exist in many industries, but there are a few industries that carry a higher risk of injury from these hazards. Industrial and construction workers especially face risks as they come in contact with electricity directly. Yet, their employers may not be promoting proper safety practices. For example, lockout/tagout procedures are critical to prevent exposure to electrical hazards. These practices are important for workers who work directly with electricity. And in 2019, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reported that lockout/tagout issues are the fourth most common violation found in the workplace. As we have discussed in previous blog posts, training plays a critical role in workplace safety. Employers must train workers and enforce these proper procedures to prevent these serious injuries. Additionally, workers must not only be aware of these hazards but also take time to understand how they can mitigate them to stay safe.

Over the years, the prominence of the logistics industry has skyrocketed. It has done especially well this past year, with many people ordering products right from their homes to avoid going out. Yet, the rapid growth of this industry as a whole has also led to many questions and concerns over the safety of the workers in this area, especially as more and more reports surface detailing the threats of serious and fatal workplace injuries. FedEx now facing pushback for danger to workers It is no secret that Amazon workers frequently face a high risk on the job. Recent reports and blog posts of our own in the past have discussed these risks as well as the accusations that the company places workers’ health and safety in jeopardy. However, now FedEx is facing similar complaints. The Southern Maryland Chronicle reports that many workers state that – like Amazon – the company places speed and production over their employees’ safety. While this story centers on the company’s hub in Tennessee, the article begs the question as to whether or not this example is one of a larger trend for not just FedEx in Tennessee, but their locations in Maryland as well as other large distribution companies in the area. The risk of injury spreads far and wide in the whole industry Why does the logistics industry leave so many workers facing significant risks on the job? The accelerated growth of the industry over the years likely plays a large role, with many companies concentrating on hiring and growth to meet consumer demands instead of the safety of their workers. However, many other factors contribute to the risk in this industry as well, including: Dangerous jobs: This industry employs many people in some of the most dangerous jobs in the United States. It has a large number of warehouse workers, package handlers and delivery drivers – all of which are jobs that carry some of the highest rates of fatal work injuries. Common accident risks: Some of the most common injuries workers across all industries suffer include overexertion injuries, falls, struck-by accidents and motor vehicle accidents. Whether working in a warehouse or driving a delivery truck, many workers in this industry have a high chance of facing these injury risks. Overnight shifts: To meet consumer demands, many workers work overnight or late shifts in the shipping centers or warehouses. As we have discussed in past blog posts, overnight shifts or long hours can significantly increase the risk of fatigue. In turn, this can also increase the risk of a workplace accident. Of course, efficiency is essential in the workplace. Everyone from employers to workers understands that. However, the demand for efficiency should not come before safety for all workers in the logistics industry. Warehouse workers should recognize the risks their employment entails, and if they are injured on the job, they should seek counsel to ensure they receive the coverage they are entitled to.