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Were you or a loved one injured in a workplace fall from a high place in North Mississippi? If so, you should understand your legal rights and the systems available to help you recover. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you identify possible sources of compensation and explore your options as you heal.
Common Causes of Workplace Falls from Heights
Falls from heights are a serious hazard in many workplaces. Numerous factors can contribute to these dangerous fall accidents, such as:
- Lack of Fall Protection: One major cause of falls from heights in the workplace is the absence of adequate fall protection systems. Workers who operate at elevated heights without the protection of guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems are considerably more likely to fall and get hurt.
- Improper Ladder Use: Another common cause is the misuse of ladders. When a worker uses a ladder that’s too short, they might stand on the top rung or place the ladder on an unstable surface, which increases their fall risk. Failing to secure a ladder at the top and bottom can also lead to preventable slips and falls.
- Unsecured Walking Surfaces: Falls can also occur due to unsecured or unstable walking surfaces. These might include loose scaffolding planks, temporary floors, roofing material covering weak areas in the roof, or construction debris that creates tripping hazards.
- Inadequate Training and Supervision: Inadequate training on safety protocols and the proper use of equipment can also lead to falls from heights. Workers can fall from heights if they are not aware of how to correctly harness themselves or the limitations of the equipment they are using.
- Poor Equipment Maintenance: Damaged or worn-out safety equipment can pose substantial fall hazards. Over time, harnesses, ladders, and scaffolds can become less reliable if not properly maintained. If employers do not conduct regular inspections and maintenance, workers can suffer falls due to preventable equipment failure.
OSHA Regulations on Falls from Heights
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets strict rules to prevent falls from heights in the workplace. According to OSHA, any work area that is four feet or higher must have protections against worker falls. In the construction industry, this requirement starts at work areas six feet or higher.
In these elevated areas, employers must install guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems to prevent employees from falling. It is the employer’s duty to provide these safety measures. They must also train all workers on how to use the equipment and understand the risks of working from heights.
OSHA also requires that employers keep all work areas free from hazards that could cause a worker to slip, trip, or fall. This includes cleaning spills, securing loose materials, and keeping all equipment in good working condition.
Worker Rights and Workers’ Compensation After a Fall
Workers have the right to seek medical attention immediately following an accident. Workers should report these incidents to their employers as soon as possible to initiate the workers’ compensation claim process. Most employers in North Mississippi must provide workers’ compensation insurance, which can cover medical expenses and a portion of lost wages while the worker recovers. Additionally, workers have the right to return to their jobs once they are medically cleared to do so. If they are unable to perform their previous duties due to injuries, employers might need to provide suitable alternative tasks that accommodate their capabilities. If the site is maintained by someone other than your employer you may also have a third party claim against the company or individual that maintains the site.
Contact a Workplace Fall Injury Attorney in North Mississippi
If you’ve experienced a workplace fall in the Southaven and Hernando areas, the right legal support can make all the difference in your recovery. At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we understand the challenges you face and are here to help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation so our team can listen to your story, evaluate your case, and guide you through your legal options.
