Falls a Frequent Cause of Workplace Injuries

Four tobacco workers were injured recently as they were hanging tobacco in a barn in Paris, Kentucky. According to news reports, a rail gave way, sending the workers crashing 25 feet to the ground. Firefighters who responded indicated that the workers suffered head, leg, back, and hip injuries, though none was considered life-threatening. Other employees at the scene said falls were common, although they usually involve only minor injuries.

Falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries. In the construction industry in particular, workers are especially susceptible to falling. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration says falls account for nearly three in five deaths among construction workers deaths each year. Moreover, in 2012 “fall protection” was the most frequent safety violation cited by OSHA.

No workers should accept injuries as just part of their jobs. An employer has a duty to maintain the safest workplace possible for workers. Unfortunately, not all employers adhere to the safety standards set by OSHA. If you are concerned about safety violations in your workplace, you may file a complaint with OSHA. A complaint may be filed online, by mail, or over the telephone.

Kentucky Workers’ Compensation

A worker who is injured in a workplace accident in Kentucky may be entitled to compensation through the Kentucky workers’ compensation system. Benefits can include both wage replacement and payment for the cost of medical treatment.

The workers’ compensation system is a no-fault system, meaning a worker is not required to show that the employer was negligent in order to be eligible for compensation. Workers must show only that they are covered by workers’ comp and that the injury occurred in the scope of employment.

If you have suffered a workplace injury or illness, or have lost a loved one as the result of one, you may be entitled to Kentucky workers’ compensation benefits.