The most dangerous industries in the United States are construction and the oil and gas industry, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Injured workers often face a long road to recovery. They may not be able to earn an income for several months, and the health-care bills can be overwhelming.
- Wear Appropriate Safety Gear
According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, personal safety equipment can protect industrial workers from radiological, electrical, chemical, physical and mechanical dangers. These include hardhats, safety gloves, protective shoes, eyeglasses, face protection, harnesses and more. It is crucial that you wear the appropriate safety gear for each particular job.
- Be Alert
The abundance of dangers on an oilfield or other industrial site means that simply being alert can save your life. From falls to exposed wires, collapses, falling objects, malfunctioning machinery and more, keeping a watchful eye for troubles can prevent many accidents from occurring in the first place.
- Assume Electrical Circuits Are Live
It is much safer to assume that an electrical circuit is live. Expect the worst, and take precautions so you do not accidentally get electrocuted.
Even experienced electricians can be forgetful or make mistakes, and in an industrial workplace, electrical currents have higher voltages than normal 120v circuits. Always be vigilant when working with or near exposed wires.
- Inspect Equipment before Using It
Many of the worst industrial accidents stem from equipment failures. This is why it is essential that contractors and worksite managers follow a strict maintenance and inspection schedule.
As an individual worker, you may be able to avoid these injuries if you check every tool and machine before you use it. Even if the item is new, it may have an obvious defect that you notice before putting yourself at risk.
In certain cases, even the most vigilant worksite managers can overlook a potential hazard. As an industrial worker, you can protect yourself and other employees from harm by staying vigilant.
Industrial companies have an obligation to comply with industry safety regulations, but this does not always happen. If you were injured on a work zone due to your employer’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses.