Industrial Hazards and Serious Injury How to Stay Safe

What are some of the most dangerous jobs? The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reveals that, “Industrial machinery mechanics and maintenance workers experience rates of injuries and illnesses that are much higher than the national average.” Industrial machinery mechanics and maintenance workers constantly put themselves at risk. Electrocution, burns, and sprains, strains, and tears are just some of the injuries threatening industrial and manufacturing repairmen. What simple tips can keep workers safe?

1. Promote Worker Awareness

   First and foremost, industrial repair workers should be aware of the most common hazards and threats in their work environments. Electrical hazards, fire hazards, and improper lifting caused a considerable amount of 2012’s 2,976,400 reported occupational injuries and illnesses. Workers facing hazards should familiarize themselves with specific safety precautions and measures. For example, over 3 million companies currently require lockout/tagout procedures, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).

2. Always Use Safety Equipment and Gear

   Safety equipment and gear can drastically reduce the likelihood of electrocution, burns, and other serious injury. For example, rubber grommets prevent electrical accidents and fire by keeping wiring organized, and intact. Workers feed wires, cables, and cords through circular or oblong fixtures, thereby protecting them from sharp corners and edges or jagged metal pieces. Nylon nuts, bolts, and screws can also be used to firmly and reliably secure electrical parts and heavy-duty industrial machinery. Nylon fasteners make it relatively easy to take fixtures apart (and put them back together), and often do not require another tool, such as a power drill or hole punch, for installation. Nylon nuts also prevent potentially harmful vibration and torque.

3. Prevent Repetitive Strain Injuries

   Finally, workers should be on the lookout for common injuries. For example, repetitive strain injuries are responsible for one out of four missed work injuries, according to the BLS. Whenever possible, workers should use tools and equipment to assist with heavy lifting. Swivel casters, leveling feet, and forklifts enable workers to easily and efficient move or raise heavy industrial machinery. If relevant equipment is not available, ask for coworkers help to move particularly large machines and parts.

Industrial machinery repair is an extremely dangerous field. Workers can reduce the likelihood of injury and missed work by being conscious of common hazards, using protective equipment such as grommets and nylon nuts, and avoiding repetitive strain from heavy and/or improper lifting. Links like this.