What Are the Most Common Workplace Safety Violations?

 Posted on November 07, 2023 in Uncategorized

In 1970, the United States federal government established the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This agency oversees ensuring that all workers are protected by enforcing workplace safety standards and regulations that employers are required to follow. Unfortunately, despite these rules, many companies are guilty of safety violations that result in accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. The following are five of the most common safety violations per OSHA statistics. If you have been injured on the job, make sure you have an Illinois workers’ compensation lawyer advocating for you.

Fall Protection Violations

Fall protection violations are one of the most common safety breaches in the workplace, especially in the construction and manufacturing industries. These violations occur when there is a lack of appropriate safety measures when working at heights. Failure to use guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Employers must provide proper training and equipment to prevent these violations and ensure worker safety.

Hazard Communication Violations

Inadequate hazard communication is a widespread safety violation, affecting industries that work with chemicals and hazardous materials. Employers are required to maintain accurate safety data sheets (SDS) and labels for chemicals used in the workplace. Violations occur when employees are not properly trained on the dangers associated with these substances or when employers fail to provide access to SDS and labels. Such violations can lead to chemical exposure, fires, or explosions.

Lockout/Tagout Violations

Lockout/tagout violations are commonly seen in industries with heavy machinery and equipment. This violation involves failure to implement proper procedures for isolating and de-energizing machinery during maintenance or repair. Without proper lockout/tagout measures, workers are at risk of being caught in machinery, resulting in amputations, electrocutions, or other severe injuries. Employers must establish and enforce comprehensive lockout/tagout programs to prevent such accidents.

Electrical Safety Violations

Electrical safety violations pose a significant risk in many industries, including construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. These violations can occur when proper electrical safety procedures are not established or followed, such as using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring proper grounding, or failing to identify and address electrical hazards. Electrical accidents can lead to burns, electrocutions, and even fatalities, underscoring the importance of strict adherence to safety guidelines.

Machine Guarding Violations

In manufacturing and industrial settings, machine guarding violations are common and dangerous. These violations involve failing to provide adequate protective barriers and safety measures around machinery with moving parts. When machines are not properly guarded, workers can be exposed to severe injuries, including crush injuries, amputations, and lacerations. Employers must prioritize machine guarding to protect the well-being of their employees.

Contact a Will County Work Injury Lawyer for Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, do not delay in contacting a Joliet, IL workers’ compensation attorney to ensure that your family receives the benefits and compensation you are entitled to under Illinois law. Call Rathbun, Cservenyak & Kozol LLC at 815-730-1977 to schedule a free consultation.