Tips for Preventing Struck-by Injuries at Work in Illinois

Struck-by accidents are quite common in workplaces. According to OSHA, one of the top four causes of fatalities among construction workers is struck-by accidents. A struck-by accident is one where an employee is hit by an object or piece of equipment. It could be a falling, flying, rolling, or swinging object. Being hit by a vehicle can also be considered a stuck-by accident. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent struck-by accidents in the workplace. This article shares some tips for preventing struck-by injuries at work.

7 Tips for Prevent Struck-by-object accidents in the workplace

Employees Should Always Wear Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is specialized clothing and equipment workers wear to protect themselves from workplace hazards. Personal Protective Equipment creates a barrier between an employee’s body and the potential hazard. Workers can prevent struck-by injuries by wearing the correct PPE. For example, construction workers should wear hard hats, safety goggles, and steel-toed boots.

Employees Should Receive Sufficient Training

Employers should train employees on how to use machinery and equipment. Allowing untrained workers to operate machinery and equipment can create a risk of flying hazards. Employees should also be trained on vehicle safety protocols, including being cautious around moving vehicles.

Potential Hazards Should Be Secured

Storing strong and heavy objects or equipment as close to the ground as possible can help prevent struck-by injuries. Placing heavy and strong objects as close as possible to the floor reduces the risk of the objects falling. Objects placed close to the ground are less likely to cause storage units or shelves to become unstable. Apart from storing heavy and strong objects close to the ground, all loose objects should be secured properly to avoid falling or rolling.

Tools and Equipment Should Be Regularly Inspected

Tools and equipment should be regularly inspected to ensure they are in good working order. If an equipment or tool has a defect, it should be fixed or taken out of service.

Employees Should Work Safely at Heights

People working at heights, such as construction workers, should be mindful when at work. Workers should avoid throwing objects across platforms or down to the ground. It is also advisable to avoid working directly underneath people working at heights whenever possible.

Employees Should Remain Alert

Vigilance is vital when it comes to preventing struck-by injuries at work. Workers should always pay attention to their surroundings while at work. You should avoid distractions like using your phone while working or being engrossed in conversations with co-workers when around potential hazards.

Employers Should Limit Access To Hazardous Areas

Employers should barricade hazardous areas and have warning signs. This can prevent workers from inadvertently accessing hazardous areas and being struck by falling, flying, swinging, or rolling objects.

What if You Suffer a Struck-by Injury at Work?

If you suffer a struck-by injury at work, you may be eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim and recover benefits. In order to protect your legal rights, the following are some of the steps to take after a struck-by accident;

Report the incident. According to Illinois law, you have 45 days from the date of your injury, to report the injury to your employer. However, it’s best to report a work injury as soon as possible.
Seek medical attention
Gather evidence
Follow medical advice
Hire a workers’ compensation attorney
Cooperate with investigations