According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 882,730 occupational injuries and illnesses in 2017 that resulted in lost days at work. Other negative consequences of New Jersey workplace injuries and illnesses include lost productivity as well as workers’ compensation claims. All of these things could result in lost money for companies in any sector of the economy.
About a quarter of workplace injuries are caused by slips, trips and falls. Therefore, companies may want to put an emphasis on mitigating conditions that could lead to them occurring. For instance, employers should have a dress code in place that requires workers to wear back braces or hard hats. Workers should also be educated about the different hazards that they could face and how to avoid them.
It is also important to ensure that job sites are properly lit and that there is adequate ventilation. This can prevent workers from tripping over objects or inhaling chemicals or other toxic materials. If a spill occurs, someone should be responsible for containing it and ensuring that everyone is aware that it has taken place. Doing so may prevent someone from slipping and getting hurt near the site.
If a worker is hurt or falls ill while on the job, he or she may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Those benefits are generally paid for through the employer’s insurance coverage. An attorney may be able to assist an employee with filing an application for benefits or appealing a decision to deny them. Legal counsel may also help those who work for an employer that fails to carry workers’ compensation insurance.