New Jersey residents who work in chemical manufacturing plants are routinely exposed to dangerous chemicals that can cause grave injuries or death. They are also at risk of falls. Both the workers and their employers should be aware of the common injuries that take place in chemical plants, why they occur and how to prevent them.
Chemicals, which can be extremely flammable and toxic, contribute to some of the common chemical manufacturing plant injuries. Typical injuries include chemical exposure, chemical burns, abrasions and cuts, overexertion, inhalation of chemicals and trips and falls. These injuries can occur even if there are safeguards in place. Inadequate training, human error and complacency and the use of safety equipment that has not been properly maintained are the main reasons accidents occur in chemical plants.
Workers may fail to adhere to safety protocols established by their employers or may try to take shortcuts to complete their job tasks. They may not know how to operate safety equipment properly and may not be trained on how to rectify an issue before it becomes a serious problem. Workers may also use safety equipment that do not undergo regular maintenance according to the manufacturers’ recommendation, which can result in the equipment malfunctioning and causing accidents. Falls can be prevented by installing customized safety equipment that is accessible and easy for employees to use. The employees should also receive training for proper safety procedures, including how to handle hazardous chemicals.
Employees who sustain workplace injuries should speak with an attorney about their legal options. Workers’ compensation benefits may be available, and in some cases a lawsuit could also be filed against a non-employer third party.
