Unsafe work conditions can happen anywhere. Whether you’re in an office, a factory, or a restaurant, you have the right to a safe workplace. However, your employer has a responsibility to provide a safe work environment. We’ve put together a list of ways to help identify an unsafe work environment to protect yourself from major injuries in the workplace.

Safety Hazards

Safety hazards include anything out of place or unsafe that could cause someone to get hurt. These hazards may not seem large but can cause major injuries. This can include anything from electrical hazards such as frayed wires or improper wiring, things on top of high shelves that can fall, confined spaces, spills without wet floor signs, and unguarded machinery.

Biological Hazards

Biological hazards are things that can cause diseases or sickness when exposed. These hazards are a result of working with people, animals, or infectious materials. Some examples include but are not limited to – animal droppings, bacteria and viruses, blood, and mold or fungus. If these hazards are not addressed, they can cause underlying medical issues in employees throughout the building. 

Chemical Hazards

Chemical hazards are an issue when workers are exposed to chemicals in liquid, solid, or gas forms. This can include chemicals in unlabeled containers, cleaning products, flammable materials, gases, and pesticides. Many people find themselves exposed to chemical hazards unknowingly when the company does not train their staff on proper cleaning procedures or mislabeled chemicals in the workplace. 

Physical hazards are not the only thing to look out for when keeping an eye out for unsafe working conditions. There are some unsafe working conditions that even go undetected. Some of these include, but are not limited to:

• Lack of training
• Operating equipment without authorization
• Using damaged equipment
• Inadequate safety warnings
• Failure to supply or use adequate safety equipment and PPE

If you encounter any of these unsafe work conditions, tell your supervisor immediately. If they do not do anything to fix the issue, escalate the issue to their supervisor to protect not only yourself but your coworkers. Sometimes it isn’t easy to spot unsafe conditions. You can tell when something is broken or falling apart, but you may not notice other hazards until you already suffered an illness as a result.

Under South Carolina law, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. Often employers and insurance companies fight back against benefit claims, making the process difficult and frustrating.

Our lawyers understand the laws and procedures that govern the South Carolina compensation system and can help you navigate your legal case with your employer. We know that receiving the right amount of compensation can make all the difference in providing you with the support you need during your recovery. No matter what type of injuries you have suffered, we will work hard to fight on your behalf so you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 864.225.9155 for help with your workers’ compensation case.