In the bustling world of industry, where powerful machines drive production, accidents can happen. So, what is the most common injury caused by working with machines unsafely? Unfortunately, the answer is amputation, which is one of the most severe and life-altering injuries.
At Schmidt and Salita, we understand the profound impact that such impairments can have on a worker’s life. Our team of experienced worker’s compensation attorneys is dedicated to representing individuals in Minnetonka, MN, who have been harmed due to unsafe working conditions.
Factors That Lead to Machinery Injury
Numerous factors contribute to the likelihood of being harmed by equipment in the job area. These can often be traced back to lapses in safety protocols or human error, but equipment failure or poor workplace management can also play a role.
Here are some of the most frequent factors that contribute to these incidents:
1. Lack of Proper Training
One of the leading causes of machinery incidents is inadequate training. When workers are not properly instructed on how to operate machines safely, they are more likely to make mistakes that can lead to injuries. Training is essential, not only for new employees but also as ongoing education for seasoned workers to certify compliance with the latest safety standards.
2. Defective or Poorly Maintained Machinery
Machines that aren’t regularly inspected, maintained, or repaired pose significant dangers. When parts wear out or malfunction, the likelihood of incidents increases significantly, such as getting caught in moving parts or experiencing equipment failure during operation. Regular maintenance and careful inspection of safety guards are essential for minimizing these hazards.
3. Improper Use of Safety Equipment
Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, helmets, and safety goggles, is mandatory in many settings. However, workers who fail to use the correct PPE or employers who do not enforce its use put themselves at a significant threat. Additionally, safety guards on machines designed to prevent direct contact with dangerous components are generally improperly used or neglected altogether.
According to a report on typical causes of machinery injuries, inadequate safety training and improper use of protective equipment are significant factors that lead to workplace injuries, including those involving machinery.
What Is the Most Common Injury Caused by Working with Machines Unsafely?
Amputation is the most common injury caused by unsafe machinery use. It occurs when an operator’s limb or appendage is caught in moving parts or struck by sharp components, such as blades or presses. These types of injuries can happen in a fraction of a second, but the outcomes last a lifetime.
They are prevalent in industries where workers are exposed to heavy equipment, such as manufacturing and construction. In machine shops, for example, inadequate safety guards or the absence of “lockout/tagout” procedures—systems designed to isolate dangerous equipment from power sources during maintenance—can lead to devastating wounds.
A study from American Machinist highlights how a lack of proper safeguarding, like missing machine guards or inadequate training, can result in severe injuries such as amputations, particularly in settings where individuals handle powerful tools like presses or cutting machines.
Other Machine-Related Injuries
In addition to amputations, there are various other types of injuries commonly associated with unsafe machinery operations.
1. Crush Injuries
These occur when a worker is trapped between two heavy objects or under moving machinery and can result in severe trauma, broken bones, or internal bleeding, usually requiring emergency medical treatment. Heavy machines such as forklifts or compactors can be especially dangerous in this context.
2. Fractures and Broken Bones
Fractures frequently occur when falling objects strike individuals or when limbs are caught in the machine’s moving parts. These injuries can lead to long-term impairment and may require multiple surgeries to heal fully.
3. Burns
They can occur when workers handle machinery operating at high temperatures or electrical components malfunction, leading to fires or sparks. In some cases, chemical burns may also happen if hazardous materials are used in conjunction with the equipment.
4. Lacerations and Cuts
Sharp blades and fast-moving parts are typical culprits of deep cuts or lacerations. These can range from minor to serious, sometimes resulting in nerve damage or infection.
These injuries are preventable with proper safety precautions and regular equipment maintenance. But, when safety protocols are not strictly enforced, workers face a higher risk of harm.
A study from BMC Public Health reveals that industries like iron and steel manufacturing are particularly hazardous due to the prevalence of machinery-related injuries, including lacerations, fractures, and amputations.
Who’s Liable for Unsafe Machinery?
Determining liability after a machinery-related injury can be complex. In many cases, the employer is held responsible for providing a safe work environment, which includes appropriately training employees and ensuring that all equipment is in good working condition. Under Minnesota’s workers’ compensation laws, affected individuals are typically entitled to medical care and wage replacement benefits regardless of liability.
Still, if the machinery itself is defective, the manufacturer or distributor may also be responsible. This is where a personal injury claim and workers’ compensation may come into play. For instance, if a piece of equipment malfunctions due to poor design or improper assembly, the injured worker could have grounds to sue the manufacturer for negligence.
Get Legal Support for Machinery Injuries Today
If you’ve been injured by unsafe machinery in Minnetonka, MN, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Schmidt and Salita today for a consultation, and let us fight to get you the indemnity you deserve.