Crush injuries are a serious workplace hazard that can result in long-term disability or even death. Crush injuries occur when a worker’s body part, such as a hand or foot, is caught between two objects or when an object falls on the worker. The pressure and force can cause severe damage to muscles, bones, and organs, leading to a range of injuries. If you have a crush injury, you may want to speak to a lawyer at Anderson Franco Law.
Statistics on Crush Injuries:
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), crush injuries are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. In 2019, there were 9,480 serious injuries and 306 fatalities caused by caught-in or caught-between hazards in the workplace. Crush injuries were responsible for a significant portion of these injuries and fatalities.
Causes of Crush Injuries:
Crush injuries can occur in any industry or workplace where heavy equipment or machinery is used. Some common causes of crush injuries include:
- Workers caught between moving machinery parts
- Objects falling from heights and striking workers below
- Workers trapped in or under heavy equipment
- Workers struck by moving vehicles
Injuries from Crush Injuries:
Crush injuries can result in a wide range of injuries, including:
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Nerve damage
These injuries can be severe and may require long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation. In some cases, workers may be unable to return to their jobs or may experience ongoing disability as a result of their injuries.
Preventing Crush Injuries:
Preventing crush injuries should be a top priority for employers and workers alike. Employers should take steps to ensure that workers are trained on safe work practices, that equipment is regularly inspected and maintained, and that safety protocols are in place and followed. Some effective ways to prevent crush injuries include:
- Providing workers with personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots
- Ensuring that workers are properly trained on the safe use of equipment and machinery
- Implementing safety guards and other safety features on equipment and machinery
- Following safety protocols, such as locking out equipment before maintenance or repair work
- Conducting regular safety inspections and addressing any hazards that are identified
Legal Actions:
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crush injury at work, it is important to seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights and options. In some cases, it may be possible to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Anderson Franco Law can help determine liability and identify all possible sources of compensation.
Resources:
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crush injury at work, the following resources may also be helpful:
- The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) provides information on preventing work-related injuries, including crush injuries.
- The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) provides resources and training programs for preventing injuries in the construction industry, including crush injuries.