Warm Weather Can Bring Increased Landscaping Workplace Injuries
Now that the weather is warmer and the days are longer, many homeowners are busy getting their yards spruced up for the summer season. Lawns will need to be mowed, bushes will need trimming, and trees will need cut, along with all the clearing, digging, hauling, and planting it takes to get flower beds and vegetable gardens in order.
The season is just taking off for those in the landscaping field, and there will be plenty of work in the upcoming months. Unfortunately, long days and heavy labor also increase the likelihood for on-the-job accidents and injuries. If you are a landscaper or know someone who works in the industry, the following information can help you be aware of the potential hazards, while advising you of what to do if an accident or injury occurs.
Common Hazards Landscaping Workers Face
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) warns that there are a variety of hazards landscaping workers face on the job that can result in severe and potentially disabling injuries.
Among the most common include:
- Cuts and amputations due to working with sharp tools and machinery
- Electrical shock from cords and contact with power cables
- Soft tissue injuries, such as muscle strains, sprains, and tears, due to heavy lifting and repetitive stress
- Exposure to sun and hot temperature, which can result in dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sun stroke
- Exposure to toxic chemicals and pesticides, which can impact breathing and result in cancer and other diseases
- Slips and trips over power cords or debris
- Falls from scaffolding and ladders, or while climbing trees
Any of the above can result in serious or even life threatening conditions. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that as many as 200 landscaping workers die on the job each year. Thousands more suffer injuries that can impact their ability to work or even perform simple tasks that are a part of their job, both now and in the years to come.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
What Should I Do If I’m Hurt On The Job?
If you are injured on the job, your first steps should be to report your injuries immediately to your employer or manager. Get medical attention right away, regardless of how serious you think your accident or injuries is. Many potentially disabling conditions have symptoms which could take days or even weeks to appear. Failing to get medical attention could result in serious health complications, in addition to impacting your ability to get compensation.
You may be entitled to South Carolina Workers’ Compensation benefits, even if you are a subcontractor or have your own business. In cases where workers’ compensation benefits do not apply, there may be other parties you could hold accountable.
Reach Out to Us Today for Help with Your Case
If you or someone you care about is injured on the job, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm right away. Our South Carolina work injury attorneys provide the professional legal representation you need to protect your rights and can advise you on the best course of action to get compensation for the injuries you suffer.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form