Many preventable occupational accidents and injuries result from human errors. It all boils down to the safety standards of the company and the enforcement of those regulations. Some employers in Oklahoma and elsewhere focus on profits instead of employee safety, often prompting human factors to come into play. It takes only one distracted worker to cause workplace injuries, not only to that person but also to co-workers.
Two of the often-neglected safety risks in all industries are proper planning and good housekeeping. When potential safety risks are addressed in the planning phase, employers can mitigate them. Preplanning can also include time management to prevent workers from taking shortcuts to meet deadlines. In turn, proper housekeeping and supervision can create a safety culture to deal with slip-and-trip hazards before they cause falls.
Many workplace accidents occur when workers are distracted. Smartphones, noise and clutter, problems at home and an endless list of other distractions could lead to serious injuries in the blink of an eye. Complacency and distractions often go hand-in-hand. Workers with years of accident-free experience could become complacent. When this happens, they are not focused on the tasks at hand, and they are also more inclined to take shortcuts.
Employers who fail to monitor distracted workers could face the financial consequences of increased insurance premiums. The workers’ compensation insurance system is a no-fault program that pays benefits regardless of who was at fault. Victims of workplace injuries in Oklahoma have every right to rely on legal counsel to protect their rights. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can provide the necessary support and guidance to pursue maximum benefits under applicable law.