OSHA Defense
How OSHA Defense Attorneys Help with Common Workplace Incidents
Keeping your jobsite in compliance with regulations provided by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) can prevent on-the-job injuries and fatalities. However, despite best efforts, both minor and major injuries can still occur. In fact, according to recent statistics, over 20 percent of work-related fatalities were in the construction industry — which means that, even if your jobsite is in compliance with OSHA regulations, your team may still be at risk. If a common workplace injury does occur, OSHA defense lawyers can help.
The Most Common Accidents and How to Prevent Them
According to OSHA, three of the most common jobsite issues resulting in serious injury or death can be prevented with:
- Fall Protection – Falls are the number one cause of fatalities on construction worksites, with fall protection being the the most common cited standard for violations. Falls can be prevented in a number of ways, including providing proper railing, guardrails, and fall protection equipment, such as harnesses.
It is also important that scaffolding is secure and does not give way. Ladders should be used safely and securely. Employees should be trained on fall protection and fall prevention. - Machinery and Machine Guarding – Employees are commonly injured when machinery and machine guarding are not properly utilized. Machine guarding can prevent amputations, lacerations, and burns. All machinery should be in proper working order and employees should be trained on proper use.
- Eye and Face Protection – Employees should always wear protective eye and face gear, including masks, goggles, and shades when appropriate. Employees should also be trained on what type of protection is required. If an employee suffers the loss of an eye, it should be immediately reported to OSHA.
How do OSHA Defense Lawyers Help?
OSHA defense attorneys can advise you on how to best proceed if a jobsite accident occurs. Because OSHA has very strict requirements for reporting accidents, it is important to contact your legal counsel immediately.
Following an injury or fatality, OSHA attorneys will discuss any documentation needed for an inspection and help guide you through the investigation process. They will also guide you through the post-inspection processes, all the while informing you of your legal rights.
The OSHA lawyers from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants know the steps your business should take after a minor or major accident. Trent Cotney and his team of experienced construction attorneys have represented contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, manufacturers and other professionals in the construction industry in all phases of OSHA-related legal matters. The Cotney Attorneys & Consultants team will walk you through every step and help find solutions to keep your employees safe and compliant with OSHA regulations.
If you would like to speak with our OSHA defense attorneys, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.