Anyone can be harmed by electricity in unsafe circumstances, but some individuals are at greater risk than others, especially those in a work environment that exposes them to these dangers on a regular basis. This includes maintenance staff, engineers, electricians, professionals who work with electricity directly, and anyone who may work on construction sites. Even office workers who may work with electricity indirectly could be exposed to electrical hazards. These accidents may occur due to incorrectly using electrical equipment, using faulty electrical equipment, inadequate training, and working near live equipment.
While employees certainly have an obligation to themselves and those around them to operate equipment safely, employers have a duty to protect their employees as well as members of the public who may be affected by their failure to adhere to specific safety regulations. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), employers must ensure that all electrical equipment is maintained, dust-tight, explosion-proof, and safe for usage. Equipment must also not be located in damp or wet locations, exposed to extreme temperatures, or exposed to gases or vapors that may deteriorate the equipment. These are just some of the safety measures that employers are required to take.
Some of the most high risk hazards that an employee may face occur when an employer does not properly maintain equipment or subjects employees to unsafe working conditions, and are all the more dangerous when conditions are harsh. Equipment may become live, or make its surroundings live, in wet conditions, for example. OSHA sets strict electrical standards that are designed to protect employees because they have the right to a safe workplace.
The Stewart Law Firm represents this type of personal injury case, among many others, and are able to help you determine the best course of action. Even if you are a subcontracted worker, you may be able to pursue workers’ compensation benefits through filing a third party liability claim.
