Employees are every company’s valuable asset. They provide the skill, dedication, and commitment essential for keeping the business running. However, some employees are more likely to be involved in work accidents than others. In this article, we'll discuss five categories of employees more likely to be involved in a workplace accident and the reasons behind this.
First Year Employees
Newcomers to any workplace face an increased risk of accidents and work-related injuries due to their lack of experience with safety procedures and protocols. First-year employees may not be familiar with their company's safety expectations or may not yet have developed the muscle memory needed to perform tasks safely. Additionally, first-year employees may be more likely to take risks or shortcuts if they feel pressured to prove themselves in their new roles. Finally, first-year employees may be more likely to take risks because they are still learning about their capabilities and limitations. All of these factors contribute to making first-year employees more at risk of workplace accidents.
Seasonal Employees
Seasonal workers present a unique challenge for employers when it comes to safety. These workers are often only with the company for a short period and may not have received the same amount of safety training as permanent staff members. Additionally, seasonal employees may be less invested in the company's safety culture and more likely to take risks if they feel that their jobs are temporary.
Add to this the fact that most seasonal employees may be juggling multiple jobs, which may demand long working hours under tight deadlines, and it’s not a wonder that these employees are often fatigued and distracted, which increases their risk of being in a workplace accident.
Workers with Language Assistance Needs
Workers who are not proficient in the predominant language spoken at work may be at an increased risk of workplace accidents for several reasons. First, these workers may not understand safety instructions or signage if they are only written in one language.
Additionally, these workers may be afraid to ask questions about safety procedures for fear of reprisal or discrimination. They may also be less likely to report unsafe working conditions or to speak up if they witness an accident. All of which puts them at a disadvantage and increases their risk of being in a workplace accident.
Workers in New Roles
When workers are assigned to new roles, they may be at an increased risk of workplace accidents due to their lack of experience in that particular job function. These workers may not yet have developed the skills needed to perform their tasks safely, or they may not be familiar with the specific hazards associated with their new roles. Additionally, these workers may feel pressure to prove themselves in their new positions and could take unnecessary risks.
Shift Workers
Shift workers may also be more at risk of workplace accidents. This is because they often work when most people are asleep and, as a result, may be tired and less alert. Additionally, shift work can disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle, which can lead to fatigue and drowsiness. Furthermore, shift work can cause stress and anxiety, further impairing alertness and concentration. And finally, shift workers may have fewer opportunities to take breaks, which can lead to overwork and increased risk of accidents.
Speak With a St. Louis Work Injury Attorney
As you can see, some workers are more at risk for workplace accidents than others. If you fall into one of these categories and are injured at work, don't be discouraged - you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits. At the Law Office of James. M. Hoffman, our St. Louis work injury lawyer has over 30 years of experience and understands how overwhelming and stressful workplace accidents can be. We're here to advocate for you and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4300 for a free case evaluation.
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