No one expects to get hurt when they go to work, but it does happen. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were over 4 million work-related injuries that required medical attention in 2019. These injuries may be caused by various factors and can affect different parts of the body. For example, falling from scaffolding at a construction site can result in fractured or broken bones. In other cases, exposure to toxic or dangerous substances can harm an employee. Even when safety measures and procedures are followed, workplace accidents involving chemical hazards can still occur. In some situations, exposure can result in severe to life-threatening consequences.

Exposure to Hazardous Substances

Toxic chemical exposure can occur in several types of industries, but there are some settings in which workers may be more susceptible to these hazards. These can include manufacturing, oil and gas, welding, transportation (trucking, railroad, agriculture, and healthcare. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides standards for preventing illnesses and injuries. However, many of the chemicals used in these types of jobs increase the risk of serious injury or death when workers are repeatedly exposed to them over a long time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there are five common substances that can cause work injuries:

We are now about to end our first week of December, and we are starting to get more stressed out about the holidays. During the holiday season, more temporary and seasonal employees are hired in the retail industry. Many businesses flourish during this period of time since most people wait until the last minute to get their shopping done. When working in retail during this busy time, it is best to familiarize yourself with safety rules in the workplace, so you can avoid getting involved in a potentially serious accident at work.

Best Ways for Employers to Enforce Safety Rules in the Workplace

In retail, particularly, employees are expected to implement strict rules on safety for employees. Some very simple ways that employers can enforce safety precautions include on-the-job training on the first day, clear and concise safety policies, and a safe environment. Employees who are working temporarily should feel comfortable enough approaching their managers and supervisors with any questions or concerns.