Did you know that you could seek workers’ compensation benefits or file a third-party lawsuit following a workplace accident? Additionally, employers who allow dangerous conditions to be present on jobsites can face substantial fines.
We bring this subject up because recently the Department of Energy proposed a fine of $150,000 against a former contractor at the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge.
The Associated Press reported that the contractor has been involved in two serious injury events. In 2013, a worker reportedly suffered respiratory injuries, as well as harm to his face and scalp, after he was exposed to lithium hydride. The worker was reportedly not wearing sufficient safety gear while he was performing tasks. Additionally, in 2013, two security guards were injured when a machine gun accidentally discharged inside of an armored vehicle owned by the company.
In response to the possible fine, the company said that it took “corrective actions” following the injury incidents.
Unsafe workplace conditions that can lead to fines and injury lawsuits can include:
- Safety hazards (wet floors, unsecured machinery, open electrical cords or wiring)
- Biological hazards (dangerous bodily fluids, bacteria, chemicals and mold)
- Physical hazards (overexposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, loud noises)
- Ergonomic hazards (poorly designed workstations, required heavy lifting)
- Organizational hazards (workload demands, violence, transportation dangers)
HOW AN ATTORNEY CAN HELP FOLLOWING A WORKPLACE ACCIDENT
As we mentioned above, aside from fines, if you have been injured in a workplace accident, you should speak to an attorney about workers’ compensation benefits and/or damages through a lawsuit.
If your employer puts you in harm’s way, you must hold it liable. There are significant medical bills that can build up after an on-the-job injury—you should not have to suffer because your employer did not have your safety in mind.
Continue to follow our blog for more information about Tennessee workplace accidents. Additionally, you can visit our verdicts and settlements page to see how our Nashville workplace accident attorney has helped victims of on-the-job injuries.
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:6
Source: https://wrcbtv.com/story/29255337/former-y-12-contractor-faces-fines-over-worker-injuries