If you ask any warehouse worker right now, they’ll most likely say their job isn’t easy, but the pay is good. They may even go so far as to say, despite the difficulties of the job, they wouldn’t work anywhere else. That may be why so many people end up working in warehouses.
Most employee handbooks for warehouse workers provide some idea of the potential risks of the job. While employees know about the dangers, most don’t understand just how these hazards can affect them. Here’s what you should know:
1. Forklift injuries
Forklifts can cause many similar injuries that a car would cause: Crush injuries, bone damage, spine and head injuries, burns, internal bleeding and disfiguration. Because of the tongs on forklifts, people may even be punctured during a collision.
2. Flammables, toxins and liquids
Most crates and barrels indicate the dangers of their contents. A busted crate that is flammable, toxic or contains liquids may cause serious damage if someone is exposed. Employees could experience serious burns, rashes, lung issues or other health problems because of exposure to a hazardous product.
3. Falling crates
Most workers have to be wary of their surroundings. If an uneven crate or forklift crash causes falling debris, an employee could be trapped under hundreds of pounds, causing broken bones and internal bleeding.
4. Slips and falls
Warehouse floors aren’t cleaned every day. Their floors may have oils, liquids and ice that could cause a worker to slip and fall, leading to head and spine injuries.
If you were injured while working, causing you to leave work, then you may need to seek legal help to ensure you are given your workers’ compensation.