Workplace injuries are unfortunately, a common occurrence. When a workplace injury occurs, both the employee and the employer suffer. The employee is unable to work and bring in compensation. They might spend their days visiting with multiple medical professionals. The employer is down a qualified employee and can be subject to high legal fees. It is best to avoid workplace injuries altogether.
Extend training requirements
Employees often receive some amount of training when starting a new job. The amount of training that is required usually depends on the specific career and the state licensing requirements. For example, construction accidents are often more common, meaning construction workers undergo longer periods of training. As an employer, it is best to extend training requirements even beyond what the licensing boards require. Studies show that extended training reduces accidents. Employees can increase their workplace knowledge and reduce workplace injuries by signing up for additional training and informing the employer if they do not feel ready to start working.
Proper safety equipment
Having the proper safety equipment is also important in reducing workplace injuries. Construction workers should have access to safety slings, fall prevention systems, and appropriate work attire. It is the responsibility of the employer to provide the proper safety equipment to their employees. It might seem expensive or out of the budget but is a small fee when compared to an employee suffering a workplace injury or bringing in the services of a personal injury law firm. The employer should not only follow minimum safety requirements in terms of equipment but should also ensure that these items are in the proper working condition.
Have a good insurance plan
Sometimes, despite the best intentions to prevent workplace injuries, they still occur. In this case, it is important to carry a good insurance plan. Otherwise, a business can easily be bankrupted and closed down in order to pay the fees of a personal injury lawyer. Insurance usually consists of a small monthly fee and if an employee injury occurs, the fees and damages are covered. Additionally, many insurance providers require alcohol and drug background checks of employees, which in itself can reduce workplace injuries. In 2015, nearly 1.1 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. These tests can reduce the number of intoxicated related truck accidents.
Have a trusted personal injury attorney on staff
If a workplace injury does occur, you want to have a trusted personal injury attorney on call. This is not the time to scramble around, consulting with possible personal injury attorneys. Additionally, having a personal injury attorney on call can help with the high costs of legal representation. When an attorney is the exclusive employer attorney, they will often offer reduced consultation fees. The attorney might also represent both the employer and the employee. However, the employee will often hire their own legal representation to ensure that their rights are protected.
Always be prepared for an injury
Workplace accidents can and do happen. While it is important to prevent them from happening, it is also important to be prepared in the event that they do happen. Have your legal information ready. Even having a preferred medical provider listed can be helpful. For this reason, many employers will require that all employees list an emergency contact. The first step following a workplace injury is to get the appropriate medical care. Then, worry about the legal aspect of the workplace injury. Approximately 95 to 96% of personal injury cases are settled pretrial, so hiring the right attorney is necessary.
Workplace injuries can put a strain on the employer employee relationship. Prevention is key in protecting both employees? safety and employer assets. Make sure you have a plan in place and improve safety measures. Have an attorney on call and have a set emergency plan in place. Workplace injuries have the best outcome when they are prepared for.