subject: Auto Shop Employees Can Avoid Top Workers Comp Claims By Working Smart [print this page] Workers compensation claims are a constant source of worry for auto repair shop owners, and no wonderwith so many moving parts and heavy machinery in and around a shop, its easy to become injured. Following is a list of what employees need to watch out for, according to insurance companies across the nation that have processed auto repair insurance and workers compensation claims after an accident.
Look out below injuries: Such injuries occur when falling objects strike employees, either when unstable objects fall from their location without warning or are dropped by an employee who loses control of the item he or she is trying to retrieve. Falling objects often result in head injuries but other body parts are vulnerable as well. Situational awareness is necessary at all times, and proper work clothing (long sleeves and long pants, hard hats) should be worn as appropriate.
Reactive injuries: Moving to avoid something is a natural reflex that can cause injury. When employees make an instinctive, sudden motiontriggered by an oncoming object, something falling from above, or some other unexpected situation that causes ones startle reflex to actthe result can be strains to the body, injury to muscles, or other medical problems. Staying alert in the shop is a must to avoid some of these situations.
Falling from heights: Climbing onto makeshift or unstable ladders to retrieve parts or tools kept high out of reach can result in injury-inducing fallsespecially when they happen in an auto repair shop on a concrete floor or other hard surface, or into machinery with sharp edges or that is in motion, making a bad situation even worse.
Slips and trips: There are many objects on a shop floor that can create a tripping hazard; oils and other fluids used to lubricate parts that are spilled on the shop floor can cause nasty slips and falls if not cleaned up immediately.
Overuse injuries: Insurance companies report that overexertion is the primary cause of workers compensation injury. This occurs when employees move, lift, or carry objects that are too heavy for them; push, throw, or otherwise move items that result in strains or worse injury to the back, legs, arms, or neck. Improper lifting techniques can also cause injury. Require employees to follow safe practices to move objects around the shop, use the buddy system, or employ use of a dolly or other item to safely accomplish the task.
Contact a professional insurance agent to learn more about auto repair shop insurance and risk management programs that can help maintain a shop environment where service doesnt take a back seat to safety.
by: TheresaL.Stromberg
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