Employers in Minnesota and throughout the country may face serious consequences if a worker is hurt or killed on the job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 240 reported deaths in 2014 involving workers who were struck by falling objects or equipment. That is roughly 5 percent of all workplace fatalities during that year.
In October 2016, a worker died after suffering fatal head injuries while trying to mount a multi-piece rim wheel. The auto parts company that the employee worked for received citations for more than a dozen serious violations. Some of those violations were related to training, personal protection equipment and exit route signage. OSHA has levied $27,157 in proposed fines against the company.
In an effort to make workplaces safer, the International Safety Equipment Association announced that member companies were creating uniform standards for items designed to prevent dropped object accidents. These standards would apply to the design, performance and labeling of such items. According to the 2016 version of the National Safety Council’s “Injury Facts” publication, head and central nervous system injuries were the most expensive type of workers’ compensation claim in 2012 and 2013. On average, such claims cost $78,183 compared to $37,738 for all other claims.
Those who experience a head injury or are otherwise hurt at work may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Employers are generally required to have workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical bills and other related expenses that a worker may incur. Those who have their claims denied or otherwise don’t receive full benefits may wish to talk with an attorney. Legal counsel may also be able to answer any questions that a worker may have about filing a claim or other matters related to his or her case.