Some professions which involved building construction, handling chemicals, and working in industrial companies are usually considered accident-prone jobs.

However, there are ways to prevent fatal industrial accidents and provide a safe workplace for employees. These are:

• Changing the workplace and installing some devices

This includes installing an effective ventilation system to prevent workers from inhaling toxic chemicals and gases; using non-toxic chemicals and eliminating toxic substances; removing the hazard; keeping workers away from the hazard; and confining work operations.

In construction site, employers are also required to provide their workers with a safety harness and safety net.

• Implementing safety practices in workplace

According to Orange County lawyers, implementing safety practices and measures is one of the most effective ways to prevent industrial accidents.

Safety practices include: eliminating unsafe practices and teaching workers about safety measures; observing workers if they are following the mandatory safety practices; provide training on a regular basis; supervising workers to determine if the safety practices need further improvements; and prohibiting workers to smoke, eat, drink, rest, enter, use mobile phones, or listen to portable music devices in certain areas.

• Adjusting the work schedule and task of employees

If possible, companies should adjust the work schedule of employees or change the schedule of a certain operation. For example, operations which involve toxic chemicals should be scheduled during periods with the fewest workers.

Employers should also adjust the work schedule of workers in accident-prone jobs in case of a bad weather or any other condition which makes the operation extra dangerous.

• Provide workers with personal protective equipment

Employers should provide high-risk workers with protective gear such as helmets, gloves, special clothing, eye goggles, ear plugs to protect the eardrum from loud noises, safety shoes, and respirators.

According to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), protective gears should be individually selected, properly fitted, regularly maintained, properly worn, and replaced regularly to make these effective in protecting workers from accidents and injuries.

• Work with OSHA agents

OSHA has the right to conduct workplace inspections and investigations to make sure employers are compliant with the federal safety standards.

The inspections are conducted by safety and health officers who are trained to identify hazards such as toxic chemicals and dangerous ergonomic design.

If employers refuse the OSHA inspection or interfere with the health officers, they will face legal consequences.

• Work with employees

Employers and supervisors should encourage their workers to report hazards and anything which may pose danger to anyone. By promoting a two-way communication with workers, employers will be able to improve the safety of their companies, thus avoiding potential lawsuits and claims.