When you go to work, you are entitled to a safe environment. While every job has risks of injury and illness, it is the responsibility of your employer to do what they can to ensure all safety measures are met. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. If you were injured at work and believe your company violated OSHA standards, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores everything you need to know about OSHA and why you need to work with a Monroe, Louisiana work injury lawyer to help you get the justice you are entitled to.
What Is OSHA?
The Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federally run public health agency. Founded in 1971, this agency has the authority to visit and examine workplaces to ensure safety standards are met. Unfortunately, many work environments, particularly those where manual labor occurs, are subjected to unsafe conditions. As a result, OSHA created standards that must be met by businesses. Similarly, they provide the necessary education and training tools for employers and employees. These are vital to ensuring all parties have received the proper training to create a safe workspace.
While OSHA has the authority to visit and inspect workplaces, they also allow people to file complaints and reports about unsafe work practices. This permits employees to voice concerns about the safety conditions in the workplace.
What Violations Are Most Frequently Cited?
Your employer is legally obligated to follow the standards set by OSHA for your workplace, whether you are in an office building or on a construction site. Understanding the most common violations can help keep you safe, while understanding if the injury you suffered was a result of your employer’s negligence. The following are the most common OSHA violations:
- Fall protection
- Ladders
- Communication hazards
- Scaffolding
- Lockout
- Machinery hazards
- Eye and face protection
If your employer has violated standards that caused injury or illness, you may be hesitant to file a claim with OSHA. However, it is vital to understand that employers are prohibited from retaliating against those who file complaints about workplace safety.
The most important thing you must do following an accident at work is to document it as thoroughly as possible. This includes informing your manager or supervisor so they can fill out an incident report and contacting emergency services for medical treatment. If possible, you should take photos and videos of the accident scene, as this can be used to help prove unsafe conditions later on. If you are physically unable to, a coworker may be able to help you with this step. Be sure to request a copy of the incident report and hold on to all medical bills.
When injured at work due to an OSHA violation, our personal injury attorneys can help. At Breithaupt, Dubos, & Wolleson, we believe everyone should be able to go to work without fear of injury. If your employer violated OSHA standards and you paid the price, we will fight to help you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
