October 07, 2020 12:38 AM UTC

Keeping Yourself Safe and Educated at Work

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• by: Phoner

If you work in a hazardous environment, you’re worried about getting injured and losing hours. Reassure yourself by taking these steps to educate and protect yourself at work.

Learn About Your Rights

Many labor laws protect workers’ rights, one of which is the right to workers’ compensation if you are injured at work. When injuries occur through a coworker or supervisor’s negligence and you need help paying for your medical expenses or taking time off, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. After a workplace injury, work with an Iowa workers compensation attorney to figure out the process, which includes giving up your right to sue your employer.

Wear PPE

Now that you know your rights, it’s time to make sure you don’t get injured. Always wear whatever personal protective equipment is necessary for your job. If you work with hazardous chemicals, you should have on goggles, gloves, a face shield, and a gown or apron. If you work in construction, you should wear a hardhat, earplugs, and safety glasses. Follow all your employer’s regulations for PPE or you risk being liable for your own injury.

Use Caution

When you work in the same environment every day, it’s easy to become accustomed to the hazards around you. Continue to use caution as you go about your job. Don’t allow yourself to daydream, and always look where you’re going. Follow all safety protocols, such as maintaining three points of contact on a ladder. If you’re struggling to sustain a healthy sense of danger, reread your employee handbook to remind yourself of all the hazards around you.

Staying safe at work is challenging, but it’s not impossible. Once you know your rights, you’re motivated to do everything in your power to stay safe at work. After all, an unplanned trip to the hospital isn’t the best use of your time.