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Amputations from workplace accidents take a toll

Avoiding amputations is nearly always possible, unless you are suffering from certain medical conditions. In the workplace, amputations can always be avoided by following proper procedures, being properly training on how to use large equipment, and by practicing safety habits. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 1992 and 1999, there was an average of 21 fatal and more than 11,000 nonfatal amputations annually in the workplace, with the majority of these amputees consisting of operators, fabricators, and manual laborers.

Employers should prevent severe injuries

What is the cause of all these amputations and how can they be avoided? It is clear that working with large machinery can be complicated. Workers in the manufacturing industry, such as lumber, metal, furniture and other industries, handle machinery that has exposed moving parts and other types of rotating and cutting equipment. It would be understandable that many workers in this industry would be prone to amputations; however, as stated previously, most amputations can be avoided if the proper precautions are taken, and also if the proper training is given by the employer.

Losing a limb is not only stressful psychologically and physically, it is also financially stressful for the worker and the employer. When a person is in an accident that results in the loss of a limb(s), the individual suffers financial strain. Time away from work results in lossed wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average amputee could not return back to work for 31 days. When a worker is out this long due to an amputation, the employer suffers as well; therefore, it is important for the employer to supply the proper training in using all workplace equipment. In addition to being out for an extended period of time, the employee may not be able to perform the duties previous to the amputation, and thus cause more strain for the employer.

Being safe in the workplace is both the responsibilities of the employee and employer. It is also critical to stress the importance of a team effort in the workplace. It may seem impossible to avoid an accident at times, particularly in environments were machinery is used on a daily basis, but accidents that lead to amputations can always be avoided. The employee must question if they are getting the proper training on how to use the equipment, if there are safety guidelines to follow when using, preparing, and cleaning the equipment, and if they are properly guarded from the exposed moving parts.

Contact an Adler workplace injury lawyer for help

The statistics reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics are staggering. Even though there has been a reported decline in amputations over the 1992-1999 period, there still is a significant amount of workers who are amputated due to workplace accidents. One must wonder what safety measures are employers taking to reduce the number of accidents, if any at all.

If you or a loved one have been amputated due to a workplace accident, question how it could have been avoided and seek out legal counsel from Jim S. Adler & Associates if you feel the amputation could have been avoided. Fill out our online form for a free case review, and let an Adler workplace injury lawyer help you gain recovery.