Workers expect that their workplaces are safe from danger. Or, if the work conditions are known to be dangerous, the workers believe that the safety mechanisms at work, including the equipment and training provided to them, will ensure that they are not at risk for injuries in the event of a workplace accident. However, accidents do occur in workplaces sometimes. Recently, two workers were injured in Pennsylvania after a heavy wall fell on top of them.
Safety at workplace can help prevent industrial accidents
Many people from Pennsylvania understand the various risks that workers of the oil and coal industry face. Because oil and coal are natural resources, they are often found in unfriendly environments; additionally, mining accidents, spills and blowouts are not uncommon. However, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration and other authorities have established various laws that ensure the safety of the workers.
Do all employers need to insure workers' compensation liability?
Pennsylvania law mandates that all employers carry workers' compensation liability insurance that covers all employees unless an employee is excluded under the law. When a Pennsylvania employee falls ill or is injured on the job, the employee can file a compensation claim with the employer. Medical expenses, lost wages and other related expenses are paid to the employee either by the employer or an insurance company.
Fewer workplace fatalities reported in 2012 in Pennsylvania
According to a report, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics stated that workplace fatalities in Pennsylvania decreased in 2012 with only 163 fatalities were reported compared to 186 reported in 2011. This is a significant decline from the 354 workplace fatalities reported in 1994. The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Program stated that the number of workplace fatalities overall in United States has also decreased, stating that 4,693 fatalities were reported in 2011, as opposed to 4,383 recorded in 2012.
