In 2014, there were more than 39,000 nonfatal workplace injuries reported in Nevada. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the majority of these occupational injuries took place in the private industry, and more than 11,000 cases resulted in the employee missing time from work.
Stopping these incidents from occurring is vital for the wellbeing of the employee, the stability of the business and avoiding unnecessary litigation. The U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration reports that work-related illnesses and injuries cost the country’s economy $198.2 billion every year. These costs come from items such as a loss of productivity and workers’ compensation insurance.
Fortunately, many of these accidents are highly preventable. For example, OSHA points out that transportation accidents are some of the most common workplace incidents. Inspecting vehicles, training drivers and enforcing a mandatory seat belt rule can help keep employees safe.
Other tips for preventing workplace injuries include the following:
- Take the necessary precautions during times of extreme weather, such as teaching outdoor workers how to dress for extremely hot or cold conditions.
- Give workers the proper safety equipment for the job, including fall arrest equipment, safety goggles and hard hats.
- Keep a clean home. Work areas should be orderly and free of debris or puddles that could lead to an injury.
While many accidents in Nevada lead to workers’ compensation claims, they can also result in a lawsuit if there is some type of negligence involved. Businesses that take the necessary safety steps can protect against an unfortunate incident as well as avoid costly claims.