New York residents who work in machine shops need adequate training to effectively do their jobs. However, accidents can still happen, and certain injuries are very common.
Amputations
Machinery that cuts materials such as metal or wood is strong enough to cut through flesh and bone. As a result, if a worker isn’t properly trained to handle such machinery, an amputation accident could occur. These catastrophic injuries can lead to filing workers’ compensation claims.
Visual impairment
A machine shop worker can suffer from serious eye injuries and even visual impairment if they don’t take precautions to protect their eyes. While working with certain chemicals and with scraps of metal and other potential projectiles, it’s possible to suffer from eye injuries and loss of sight. Some of these might be temporary, but it’s possible for vision loss to be permanent. Workers should always wear protective goggles while working to prevent debris or chemicals from getting into them. Eyewear can also block UV rays that could damage vision.
Repetitive motion injuries
Repetitive motion injuries are common for machine shop workers. When using certain equipment and being required to perform the same activities over and over, it’s possible to suffer such injuries. It could be due to heavy lifting or continuous overuse of certain muscles.
Inhalation of chemicals
Machine shop workers often work with hazardous chemicals. If they inhale those substances, it can lead to serious illness. It’s important for workers to have protective gear such as face masks. However, employers must also ensure that ventilation is regulated so that workers can have access to good air quality while working with these substances.
Electrical shock or electrocution
With all the machinery used in machine shops, electrical shock and electrocution injuries are common among workers. This is a type of injury that could be fatal. Equipment must be well-maintained to ensure its safety. Electrical outlets should also be inspected and repaired if necessary.
Machine shop injuries can be serious. Employers are obligated to make a safer environment for their staff.