5 Common Workplace Injuries that Cause Worker Claims

Slips, trips and falls among their technicians are a common concern for maintenance and engineering managers, given the level of difficulty of their jobs at institutional and commercial facilities. 

They are also the No. 1 cause of all workers’ compensation claims, according to High-Rise Financial, a pre-settlement legal company, so it is important that managers understand the implications of potentially dangerous working conditions or tasks. 

While workers who suffer broken bones, sprains, cuts and muscle pulls often require time away from their jobs to recover physically, accidents also can result in legal action by injured workers. Accidents in the facilities by visitors can also result in legal action, so managers need to be aware of the most common causes of workplace injuries that are eligible for pre-settlement funding, according to High-Rise Financial. 

1. Slip and fall accidents: If someone failed to place warning signs around slippery areas or left debris in a walkway, building occupants or employees could easily fall, resulting in a back injury, broken bones, or a concussion. 
2. Malfunctioning equipment: Many jobs involve equipment that could be faulty or worn down. Maintenance personnel are obligated to ensure that the work equipment will not cause injuries like accidental amputation or burns. 
3. Inadequate training: Employers are responsible for training employees in all the processes required to do their jobs safely. If training programs are inadequate or not provided, the employer is often liable for any injuries. 
4. Exposure to harmful substances: Contact with dangerous chemicals, excessive radiation levels or scalding liquid can lead to severe burns or even long-term illnesses such as cancer. Employers, managers and co-workers must follow all proper safety procedures to ensure injuries and illnesses are avoided from these substances. 
5. Excessive noise: Loud environments can impact short- and long-term hearing. Employers must provide workers with training and protective equipment to guard against employees developing hearing issues. 

 Dave Lubach is executive editor of the Facility Market. 

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