When you go to work, whether you work in construction or manufacturing, you expect to go home in the same condition you arrived. In other words, you expect to be safe. You ensure your safety by using proper safety equipment and often just good-old common sense. But, you aren’t the only one responsible for your safety on the job—your employer has responsibilities there, too.
According to a press release from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), one Houston-area employer is facing serious penalties for failing to keep workers safe.
The press release says Texfab Inc. has been cited with 11 serious violations and 2 “other-than-serious” violations. In all, the penalties amount to more than $48,000.
The majority of these violations involve exposing workers to fall hazards. But the company is also accused of failing to provide proper equipment to ensure clean air. The violations classified as serious are those that cause “substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.”
According to David Doucet, OSHA’s area director, “Employers must recognize the hazards that exist in their workplaces and then develop safety and health procedures to protect workers on the job.”
This is true no matter what industry you work in, though manufacturing and construction industries often have the most risks.
This particular manufacturer makes cylinders used in the oil and gas industry. The safety violations were discovered on an investigation following a complaint. It isn’t clear whether it was an employee who filed the complaint. The company has 15 days to respond to the violations.
Workplace hazards can come in the form of air quality, fall risks, unsafe tools, and outdated equipment. They can come from poorly trained coworkers or supervisors who encourage workers to cut corners. But when a safety hazard causes a serious injury accident, someone must be held responsible.
From missed wages to costly medical bills, a serious accident can have lasting consequences.
Houston Workplace Accident Lawyer
If you are injured on the job, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Kevin Krist, a Houston area workplace accident attorney, may be able to help. Contact our office today to discuss your case and the legal options available to you. Call 281-677-3960.
