Mississippi Workers’ Compensation: Falling Object Safety

One of the four “fatal hazards” affecting workplace safety and health is injuries caused by being struck by objects. It is very difficult to prevent a work-related injury no matter how vigilant you are.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified object impact injuries as one of four types of fatal work injuries. These types of injuries are caused when an employee is struck by a falling object, has an object tip over, or is hit by a moving vehicle.

Businesses should take measures to ensure a safe working environment and reduce the risk of accidents with falling objects. Employers should also always have the business and employees insured with adequate worker accident coverage. If you are in an accident, our Mississippi workers’ compensation lawyers are always there for you.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, Mississippi had 59 work-related fatalities in 2019. Mississippi has experienced 24% fewer work-related deaths since 2018. A high of 128 work-related deaths was recorded in 1995 and 1999 and a low of 59 is recorded for 2019.

The Risk of Falling Objects on Construction Sites in Mississippi:

Concrete, hammers, and other objects can fall from the roof, causing painful and severe injuries. Work materials should also be stored away from the edge of the building and all heavy equipment should be secured on stable grounds.

Employees should make sure their tools are strapped to their belts or strapped to the walls, which can prevent them from falling off the side of the building. There is also a risk of building materials falling from the ceiling or walls when demolition, renovation, or tears are taking place. 

Tips to Prevent Workplace Injuries:

OSHA regulations require employers to prevent falling objects by using safety nets, ropes, and awnings, in addition to preventing falls, under 1910.28. Falling object accidents can be prevented with the right equipment. Employers can protect their workers by complying with these requirements:

Provide Eye Safety Glasses:

Employers should require their employees to wear eye protection if there is a chance that dust or small particles in the air transmitted from the machines can affect their eyes. Safety glasses, face shields, or eye protection should be provided if such hazards exist.

Putting On Safety Helmets in the Workplace:

Employees and visitors in the area should wear hard hats if they are working on scaffolds (such as on them). After some time, check helmets regularly for any dents, cracks, or signs of wear. Such protective gear should be changed at regular intervals if they show any such signs of cracks or dents. 

Make Sure Workers Are Visible:

Construction sites and parking lots are high-risk areas where workers must always be known and visible, especially when using heavy machinery. Wear bright clothing and reflective vests when operating within such areas. Always wear high-visibility safety clothing indoors and outdoors, especially at night.

Lower Blades and Lock Moving Machinery Parts When Not in Use:

Potentially hazardous equipment and machinery should be kept in secured areas when they are dormant. Lower the blades of bulldozers, loaders, and similar machines, and lock their moving parts when they are being repaired. Training sessions should be scheduled regularly for employees to ensure they understand how to properly secure machines.

Inspect Tools and Equipment:

Ensure that tools and equipment are in good condition and safe to operate. Inspect them regularly for faults, and if faults are found, remove them from service. Examine guards and protective components to ensure they are intact and will protect workers from moving parts. 

Restricting Access to Work Areas:

It is more likely that workers who are not trained in workplace safety procedures will be injured. Only those who are essential to a project, as well as those who have been trained in workplace safety procedures, should enter a work environment. Workers should not be allowed to enter the site if they do not know about the hazards.

Contact Our Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Lawyers:

If you or someone you know was injured by a falling object, please contact our Mississippi workers’ compensation lawyers. Our lawyers have investigated work-related injuries for decades, gathered evidence of negligence, and won adequate compensation for workers injured due to occupational injuries.

The law is on your side, and we understand how dangerous construction sites can be in Mississippi. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and let us show you how we can help.