There is a myth out there that you cannot sue your employer after a workplace accident. There are exceptions to this rule, however, your situation may warrant pursuing legal action for compensation. This is especially true in instances where an employer was grossly negligent. There is some degree of danger or risk that is involved in some professions, such as construction workers and coal miners. But as your lawyer can inform you, like a team member at Hayhurst Law PLLC, you have to remember that your employer still has a duty to protect you, and take measures to prevent accidents wherever possible. If you are wondering what the signs of employer negligence are, read on for more details.
Lack Of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE is what keeps workers safe while they are doing their jobs. Personal protective equipment is not just for the medical field, as there are numerous jobs that require protection in order to reduce the chances of injury or illness. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) necessitates that employers supply their employees with basic PPE. For instance, your average construction worker must be provided a face shield or goggles, a hard hat, hearing protection for excess noise, a respirator, and high-visibility clothing. But these few items are just the basic level of PPE and depending on the nature of your job duties, your employer may be required to provide higher levels of protection.
Lack Of Proper Safety Training
A devastating fact about certain industries is that they are often trying to cut costs. Some employers may attempt to get away with supplying as little training as possible, so that they can get that person working faster and this will also save the company time and money. But an employer who doesn’t provide workers with enough safety training may ultimately result in severe or deadly consequences. Do not let your employer get away with offering minimal protection or short-cutting training, as they are bound by law to protect and educate you to the degree needed so that you can perform your job in a reasonably safe manner.
Lack Of Reliable Hazard Assessment
Another OSHA requirement is that workplaces receive a routine hazard assessment. An employer has to take the opportunity to review the work area for potential risks to a worker’s health. As a workplace injury lawyer victims trust from Hayhurst Law PLLC has seen before, there are cases where employers did not attend to slippery surfaces, malfunctioning machinery, or other hazards that ended up causing significant harm to employees. If you are not sure if your workplace accident warrants filing a lawsuit against your employer, the best thing you can do is meet with a legal team familiar with personal injury cases like these. If you suspect that your employer has engaged in negligence, then now is the time to get help.