Safety stand-downs can help workers avoid injury.
Landscape work is hard work. It’s also dangerous. An increase in fatalities in the landscaping industry since 2012 has safety experts concerned.
In April, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) teamed with employers and industry groups to conduct “safety standdowns” at job sites to focus on common causes of injury and death. As the summer landscaping season kicks into high gear – often with new high school or college kids joining the crew – it’s important to reiterate the dangers and safe practices.
Preventing Accidents In Landscaping Jobs
The OSHA safety stand-downs focused on common hazards in landscape and construction work. The leading causes of injury and fatality are falls, getting crushed, getting struck by objects, and electrical shock. In Florida, landscaping deaths have tripled since 2012.
All landscaping jobs have their own unique dangers: deck building, excavation, tree trimming, hardscape, cement work. Even cutting grass has its hazards. Employees and foremen should insist on safety training relating to the dangers and regulations regarding trenches, backhoes, hoists, ladders, power tools, riding mowers and working near utility lines (gas and electric). They should demand proper safety gear for the job, such as hard hats, protective eyewear, steel-toed boots, Kevlar chaps and fall protection.
In the event of serious injury, any workplace accident should be reported to the supervisor or employer in timely fashion. In addition to workers’ compensation benefits, construction workers and landscapers may have personal injury claims against the property owner, utility company, equipment manufacturer or another subcontractor on the site who created or failed to warn of a dangerous condition.
It is always worthwhile to seek legal help. An experienced personal injury lawyer can assert your rights and help you maximize compensation from all applicable sources.