It isn’t always clear whether your management is creating an unsafe work environment. Some jobs are inherently dangerous, and you may see hazards as normal. In other situations, you can grow accustomed to unnecessary dangers, no longer questioning the appropriateness of your working conditions.
If you are unsure of whether your employer is creating an unsafe work environment, here are some questions you can ask yourself.
Is the Staff Properly Trained?
Any piece of equipment requires proper training to operate. Seemingly harmless machines can be deadly when used by untrained workers.
Assess your working environment, and consider your own experience. Does your management simply dole out duties without taking time to train workers? If so, they could be creating a dangerous work environment.
Written warnings and signage are a part of proper training. Look at areas with dangerous machinery. Is there warning tape? Are there caution signs present? If not, this is an unsafe workspace.
Is Your Equipment Up to Date?
It’s important to stay current with any equipment you use. Manufacturers are constantly making technological advances to make machines safer. Even tools you use by hand get better, easier to use, and safer over time. If your company is using antiquated, dated equipment, you could be in an unsafe job.
Not all employers can afford to update their tools and machines, but they do have an obligation to keep them maintained. If your company is using older tech, that equipment should be in proper working order. Failure to maintain machinery is another example of a hazardous working condition.
Are There Hazard Left Unfixed?
Even the safest, least risky office job can have hazards laying around. If no one is attending to these problems, this is a clear example of an unsafe job.
If your office has exposed wires, for instance, someone should take care of this problem. Management should always be on the lookout for slippery surfaces. Chemicals and toxins should be safely stored and out of reach. Sharp surfaces should be filed down, protecting hands and feet.
A generally unkempt office area isn’t safe, either. Stairs and walkways could be blocked with boxes or machines. This is a fire hazard, as it makes escape more difficult. In fact, extra boxes laying around could catch fire and create a problem.
Is There Low Visibility?
The physical layout of your work environment is important for your safety. In a high-risk job like construction, you must be able to see where everyone else is and what they’re doing. Even office jobs must have clear walkways and breakrooms that allow you to see other employees. Otherwise, you could find yourself slamming into one another as you bustle around, completing your tasks.
Talk to an Attorney
If you’re concerned about the safety of your work environment, contact an attorney. Tell them what you’ve observed. If they spot examples of your employer creating an unnecessarily hazardous space, they can help.
Our firm is here to protect the rights of California’s workers. If you need help with workers’ compensation or similar matters, call us today at (714) 909-2609. You can also contact us online.