Who is Most Affected by Workplace Accidents?
Working in any industry can come with risks; however, there are certain industries in which injuries are more prevalent. In Florida, there are three primary industries where work-related injuries are most common:
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Healthcare
Let’s break down the key factors that affect each industry and how these injuries can be prevented.
Construction Injuries
The construction industry in Florida is booming, with more than 607,000 employees employed across the state as of November 2022. Unfortunately, this industry is known for its high rate of workplace accidents due to a variety of risk factors, such as:
- Working at heights
- Heavy machinery
- Construction negligence
- Insufficient PPE
Construction-related accidents accounted for nearly 30% of all Florida workplace fatalities in 2020.
To reduce the risk of injury in this sector, employers should ensure that workers have adequate training and access to protective equipment such as helmets and safety harnesses. Additionally, employers should monitor onsite conditions routinely to ensure proper safety protocol is followed.
In The Agriculture Industry
The agriculture industry is another sector that sees a higher-than-average rate of workplace injuries due to the nature of the job. Working on farms or other agricultural sites often involves strenuous physical labor under the sun with heavy machinery or hazardous chemicals, which can increase the chances of an accident occurring. In 2020, approximately 50 percent of fatalities in the agriculture industry were due to a vehicle. Tractors, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and other types of vehicles can all be involved in these tragic accidents.
To reduce these risks, employers should provide workers with regular breaks and ensure they have the appropriate protective gear when necessary. Additionally, employers should ensure proper maintenance of all equipment used onsite to prevent malfunctions from occurring.
Accidents in Healthcare
The healthcare sector also has a relatively high rate of workplace injuries due to long hours spent on their feet and exposure to potential hazards such as needles or hazardous materials. Common injuries or illnesses among healthcare workers include:
- Back injuries
- Slip and falls
- Infectious diseases
- Injuries due to assault
To reduce risks in this sector, employers should ensure that workers have sufficient safety training and access to the necessary protective equipment. Employers should also create an open dialogue with staff to ensure that any hazards or concerns are addressed quickly and effectively.
How Rosenberg & Rosenberg, P.A. Can Help You After a Workplace Accident
If you are injured in a workplace accident, Rosenberg & Rosenberg, P.A. can help. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping you seek justice and compensation for any injury or illness caused by an employer’s negligence. We will work closely with you every step of the way to ensure that your rights are protected.
Call us today at +1 (954) 963-0444 or fill out a simple form online!
