Safety should always be your top priority when working in any construction or industrial setting. Industrial workers put themselves at risk every day just by going to work with heavy equipment, loud noises, electrical hazards, extreme outdoor weather, etc. It is very easy for accidents to occur if employees and management don’t take proper precautionary measures. When an industrial accident occurs, it can have significant and often long-term consequences.
Here are a few common causes of industrial workplace accidents!
Mechanical Issues
Accidents are bound to happen when machines or equipment fail or break down. Anything from power failure, fire, explosions, broken or damaged equipment, or wear and tear of machines can be caused by not following proper maintenance and safety protocols.
It’s important to regularly check the condition of heavy equipment and work machines to ensure they are up to standard and functioning properly. Repairs or replacements should be made immediately to avoid unwanted accidents.
Environmental Factors
The environment in which you work greatly affects your job performance. Environmental causes of workplace accidents can refer to both natural and man-made environments, like the design of your workspace.
Common environmental causes of accidents include:
- Air Pollution/Poor Ventilation: causes breathing issues among workers
- Poor Lighting: leads to low visibility, causing people to fall, slip, or trip
- Extreme Temperatures: If a workplace is too hot, overheating can occur. If the workplace is too cold, frostbite or hypothermia can set in.
- Sound Pollution: Continuous loud sounds can cause damage to workers hearing over time.
It’s the company’s job to ensure an employee’s work environment has the right conditions to be a safe and productive space for everyone. Protective gear should be provided to workers, and outside environmental factors like weather and temperature should always be monitored.
Human Error
Humans aren’t perfect and are more difficult to predict and control in the workplace. Many industrial workplace accidents are caused by the worker involved in the incident. From taking shortcuts, stress, fatigue, improper lifting, dehydration, overexertion, and poor organizational skills, workers can put themselves in dangerous situations on the job site.
Mental distractions can also contribute to workplace injuries. For example, if someone is operating a crane or any other type of machinery and is not focused on what they are doing and their surroundings, this can cause them to improperly operate the machine and neglect safety procedures.
Finally, lack of preparation is a major reason that can lead to someone getting injured on the job. Whether the details of the project are not thoroughly explained to everyone involved or the entire operation is rushed to meet a deadline, getting sloppy will only lead to more problems and a greater chance that someone will be injured.
Ritter Forest Products offers several products designed to protect you and your workers. By taking the proper precautions and using things like our hardwood mats, you can ensure that your heavy-duty machinery stays secure and ready to take on your next project!
Contact us to request a quote or browse our products and services online.
