Housekeeping in any workplace is as crucial as at home. Workers nationwide, including in Florida, cite housekeeping-related injuries on workers’ compensation benefits claims. In many cases, preventable accidents are indirectly the result of disorganized workstations. Employers are responsible for employee health and safety, and maintaining high standards can protect workers.
Slip, trip, and fall injuries
The following housekeeping errors are common causes of fall-related injuries:
- Randomly placed tools, materials and other objects
- Moisture, water, grease, oil and substances on floors
- Placing tools and materials beyond the reach of workers
- Unmarked changes in elevation on walkways.
Lacerations
Poor housekeeping in all industries, from construction sites to industrial kitchens, pose the following laceration hazards:
- Any sharp objects that are not safely stored pose laceration risks
- Sharp-edged materials and tools, jagged metal and more
- Machines with moving parts and no safeguards
Musculoskeletal injuries
Although slip, trip and fall accidents often cause muscle sprains and strains, the following pose additional hazards:
- Improper lifting techniques are often to blame for strains and sprains.
- Excessive lifting, pushing, carrying and placing heavy objects can cause musculoskeletal injuries.
- Objects that must be moved out of the way could cause preventable injuries.
- Lifting heavy objects stored too high or at floor level could cause strains and sprains.
Workers in Florida who have to deal with the consequences of injuries caused by poor housekeeping are likely eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Typical benefits cover medical expenses and lost wages. However, those workers whose injuries cause permanent disability usually receive additional benefits.