While it’s not usually a warning that needs to be issued, this winter is shaping up to be anything but usual in Georgia.
Consequently, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration is issuing information reminding employees and employers of the dangers of Georgia work accidents caused by snow and ice removal.Our Atlanta workers’ compensation lawyers also remind employers that transportation accidents are the number one cause of serious and fatal work injuries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports traffic accidents were responsible for 1,682 of the nation’s 4,340 work accidents in 2009.
Whether you are delivering the mail or delivering pizzas, you should not be forced to work when weather and road conditions present undue hazards.
“Cleaning up after a storm encompasses a variety of tasks, each of which can carry risks if performed incorrectly or without proper safeguards,” said Cindy Coe, OSHA’s regional administrator in Atlanta. “We want people to know what those risks are and what steps they can take to protect themselves against these hazards.”
Hazards include:
-Electric shock from downed power lines.
-Falling snow and ice.
-Falling limbs and branches.
-Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
-Lacerations and amputations from chainsaws and power equipment.
-Slip and fall injuries.
-Car accidents.
-Frostbite and exposure injuries.
Safety tips include:
-Use proper safety around electrical equipment and downed lines.
-Use properly maintained ladders and fall protection.
-Use caution on or around icy surfaces.
-Wear eye, face and body protection.
-Clear walking surfaces of ice and snow.
-Wear reflective clothing.
The Atlanta work accident lawyers at the Law Offices of J. Franklin Burns, P.C., have the knowledge and experience to help clients obtain all of the benefits to which they are entitled under the Georgia workers’ compensation program. Our experienced staff will also carefully review the facts and circumstances of your accident to determine whether additional claims can be filed against someone other than your employer. For a free and confidential appointment to discuss your rights, call 678-298-0323.
