Knowing These Workplace Hazards Can Increase Workplace Safety

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 4,821 people were killed on their jobs in 2014. Hazards exist in every workplace. It is the responsibility of the employer to make sure that their employees work in a safe and healthy atmosphere.

Moreover, workers must also exhibit a higher level of awareness of surroundings to remain safe. They must be thoroughly trained and have proper certifications before they get to work. However, accidents do happen. Here are some workplace hazards knowing which can improve workplace safety:


Falling from height is one of the most common causes of workplace injuries and leads to many fatalities every year in the United States alone.

Whether it is inability to track things in periphery or fatigue due to a hard day of work, a minor lapse in concentration may lead to a fall or trip.


According to the Seattle Fire Department, a whopping 70,000 to 80,000 fire incidents occur in the United States. It is estimated that around 200 deaths and 5,000 injuries occur as a result of these fires. Being aware of where the fire extinguishers are, conducting fire drills, and specifying safety exits can minimize damage to workers.

Electrical Hazards

Workers who regularly work with electricity, such as electricians and engineers, are at great risk of getting injured.

Injuries can also be endured by workers trying to make a quick fix without appropriate training. Proper knowledge of wiring and awareness of power lines are important in mitigating risks. Also, keeping liquids away from electrical devices and carrying out thorough safety examinations can reduce injuries related to electrical hazards.


Prolonged exposure to chemicals can lead to injuries and even fatalities. Fumes from harmful gases and venomous corrosives can prove to be detrimental to workers’ health. Inhaling these chemicals can cause damage to the lungs. Moreover, repeated exposure to the skin can harm it. Appropriate precautionary measures must be taken to minimize the risks.

Hazards Communication Issues

Failure to communicate the dangers of hazards, such as any chemicals or devices, can lead to severe workplace injuries. Sometimes, workers may fail to notice the most intuitive and clearest of labels. Other times, they may fail to understand them. It is very important for employers to effectively convey the hazards of any working conditions.

Whether falling from height or repeated exposure to chemicals; if you have been injured by any of the above hazards, we at The Fitzgerald Law Firm can help. Our workers’ compensation lawyers in New York can help you file lawsuits for damages and win them to receive necessary compensation.