The most common types of warehouse accidents

As a warehouse worker, there’s never a dull moment. Even during off-peak hours there’s always something happening to keep you busy.

It’s important to keep a close eye on your surroundings at all times, as there are many types of warehouse accidents that can cause serious injury or even death. These include but are not necessarily limited to the following:

• Forklift accidents: Forklifts are a big part of an efficient warehouse, but these vehicles have the potential to cause many types of accidents. For example, a forklift could strike people while they’re crossing from one aisle to the next. Just the same, a forklift could drop a load, thus harming anyone in close proximity.
• Falling objects: In a warehouse, objects are often stored at height. If something falls from above, it could seriously harm anyone standing below.
• Slip and fall: This type of warehouse accident is common, and is often the result of: debris on the floor, neglecting to clean up liquid spills, unorganized aisles and lack of lighting.
• Rack collapses: Any type of rack in use in a warehouse setting must be able to hold the weight of the items it is storing. Furthermore, proper assembly is critical.
• Strains: Many warehouse workers are staffed with the responsibility of lifting heavy items, pushing and pulling. This is why it’s so important for all workers to be properly trained with regard to lifting technique.

What to do about a warehouse injury

You hope you never suffer a warehouse injury, but if this happens, you don’t want to panic. Instead, take these steps:

• Stay where you are and assess your injury
• Call for immediate medical help
• Report the incident to your direct supervisor
• Follow the advice of your medical team with respect to treatment

Depending on the type of injury, your doctor may suggest that you take extended time away from work. This will give your injury time to heal, thus allowing you to return at full capacity in the future.

If you’re in this position, you should learn more about filing a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. You have legal rights as an injured worker, and you want to protect them at all costs. If there’s money owed to you, don’t miss out on it.