Food Service Injuries – Slips & Falls
Along with a rich history, an abundance of natural scenery, and attractions to suit any interest, tourists are drawn to Charleston and cities throughout South Carolina for the variety of culinary offerings that are available. From five star restaurants to home-style barbeque joints, visitors and locals alike keep food service workers busy, particularly in the spring and summer months. Unfortunately, however, cleaning, cooking, and prep work, in addition to running food and waiting on tables, can make food service injuries likely to occur. Restaurant workers can be at serious risk for on-the-job accidents and injuries. If you are currently working in food service or anticipate getting a job in this field over the coming season, the following offers some helpful tips on how to stay safe.
Slips and Fall Accidents in The Foodservice Industry
Restaurant Technologies, a leading supplier in the foodservice industry, reports that slip and fall accidents are one of the most common causes of on the job injuries. They occur as the result of wet or greasy floors and improper floor surfaces as well as from debris and obstacles that block workers’ paths.
Contact with glassware, knives, and sharp surfaces during a slip and fall can result in serious cuts and lacerations, and severe burns can result if an accident occurs near stoves or ovens — or if boiling water or hot fryer oil is involved. Other common types of injuries suffered in slips and falls include:
- Muscle and tendon strains, sprains, and tears
- Broken bones and dislocated joints
- Back and neck injuries, including ruptured discs and damage to vertebrae
- Head injuries, including a concussion and traumatic brain injuries
Restaurant Technologies states that even minor injuries to food service workers cost an average of $6,000, while more serious injuries may run into tens of thousands of dollars and impact your ability to work for a year or more.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
Tips For Preventing Slip and Fall Injuries
In order to maintain safety on the job and to avoid slip and fall accidents and injuries, EHS Today recommends workers take the following steps:
- Wear the appropriate shoes with nonskid soles
- Use non-slip mats in places where condensation occurs
- Keep electrical cords out of walkways and aisles
- Use wet floor signs and clean up spills as soon as they occur
- Point out any damage to flooring or carpeting immediately to your supervisor
If you are involved in a slip and fall accident on the job, you should report it immediately to your employer and get medical care as soon as possible. You may be entitled to South Carolina Workers’ Compensation benefits, which can compensate you for medical expenses and lost wages you suffer.
Contact Our Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today
If you suffer an accident or injury on the job, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm right away. Our South Carolina workers’ compensation attorneys provide professional legal representation to assist you in getting the compensation you need to recover.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
