Every day, many people go to work in order to support themselves and their families. Unfortunately, they sometimes injure themselves while on the job, and are left with hefty medical wages and time away from work. Below, we discuss workplace injury and illness statistics in Alabama.
If you have been injured at work, reach out Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. to speak with an experienced Alabama work injury lawyer. We can inform you of your legal options and ensure your rights remain protected throughout the entire personal injury claims process. To schedule a free, initial consultation of your case, contact us today at (205) 933-1500.
How Common are Workplace Injuries and Illnesses in Alabama?
In 2017, private industry employers in Alabama reported 32,900 non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses. According to the Regional Commissioner of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Alabama was among the 15 states and District of Columbia that had a total recordable cases (TRC) rate that was drastically lower than 2.8, which is the national rate.
Of the 32,900 private industry injury and illness cases, about 17,600 were severe as they involved restriction, time away from work, or a job transfer. The most common occupational injuries in Alabama fell under three categories: respiratory illnesses, hearing loss, and skin disorders. Most of these injuries occurred in the trade, transportation, utilities, and manufacturing industries.
When it comes to fatal work injuries, there were a total of 83 in Alabama in 2017. The majority of these fatal injuries were the result of transportation incidents; contact with objects and equipment; and falls, slips, or trips. Men accounted for 96% of these work-related fatalities that typically occurred in the private transportation and warehousing sectors.
Ways to Prevent Workplace Injuries and Illness
While some workplace injuries and illnesses in Alabama are inevitable, others can be prevented. Here are some ways to reduce the risk of workplace injuries and illnesses in AL:
Keep a clean workplace.
A clean work environment can significantly lower the chances of workplace injuries and illnesses. If a workplace is cluttered and dirty, employees may find it challenging to get around. They may trip on an exposed cord or loose rug and hurt themselves.
Provide proper training.
Staff should be properly trained on how to use any equipment that their position may require. In addition, they should be familiar with safety procedures for said equipment.
Wear safety equipment.
Goggles, hard hats, and face shields must be worn in work environments where machinery and equipment are used.
Minimize stress.
When employees are stressed, they are more likely to injure themselves. Employers should focus on creating a low-stress environment and encourage time off so that employees can relax and recuperate.
Avoid shortcuts.
Many accidents happen when employees take shortcuts to quickly complete a job. Employees should follow all instructions properly to reduce the risk of mishaps at work.
Inspect and maintain company vehicles.
Since driving accidents are a frequent occurrence in the workplace, it’s a good idea to inspect vehicles on a regular basis and repair them right away.
Design a safety and wellness plan.
An effective safety and wellness plan is the key to a safe work environment. The program should be introduced to all employees and encourage them to report dangerous behavior or practices.
Call an Alabama Work Injury Lawyer for Help
If you’ve incurred injuries at work, we encourage you to contact Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. as soon as possible. We may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim on your behalf so that you can focus on recovering without worrying about the financial burden your injury has caused. To schedule a free, initial evaluation of your case, call us today at (205) 933-1500, or reach out through the online form.
