Workplaces have many potential hazards, and one common type of injury that occurs is a crush injury. This happens when two objects catch, squeeze or crush a worker’s body parts.
From heavy machinery accidents to falling objects, crush injuries can happen almost anywhere. Understanding this problem is important for exploring workers’ compensation after an accident.
Heavy machinery accidents
In industries such as construction, manufacturing and agriculture, heavy machinery is a huge part of operations. However, malfunctioning equipment often leads to devastating crush injuries. Workers can get caught between moving parts of machinery or pinned against stationary objects.
Falling objects
In workplaces where items are up high, falling objects pose a significant risk. Tools, equipment or materials can slip from shelves and result in crush injuries. Workplaces need to provide appropriate personal protective equipment such as helmets and safety shoes, along with implementing measures to secure objects properly.
Vehicle accidents
In industries involving transportation, such as logistics and delivery services, vehicle accidents can lead to crush injuries. Vehicles can pin workers underneath them or in between places or other vehicles in rollover accidents. Maintaining vehicles properly and providing driver training are important steps for employers.
Collapsed structures
On construction and excavation sites, crush injuries can happen after the collapse of structures or trenches. Debris or materials may fall on workers. Employers should know regular inspections of worksites and proper shoring of trenches are a part of any safe workplace.
Workers’ compensation can help workers financially after a crush injury. However, while these injuries are common in various workplaces, they are not unavoidable. By understanding the potential risks and implementing preventive measures, employers can improve the safety of their workplaces.