top of page
Writer's pictureJohn Larrimer

Are Amputation Hazards Common?

Amputation hazards are one of the most common dangers in the workplace. Workers can sustain a laceration or crushing injury, most often from moving machine parts, which can lead to amputation.

When workers lose a limb, the recovery can be long, and they may never regain full function. If they work a physically demanding job, the injury could seriously impact their lives and future employment options.

McLaughlin Body Co. was cited by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for exposing workers to amputation hazards at its plants in Rock Island and East Moline.

McLaughlin failed to implement lockout/tagout procedures, which protect workers from moving machine parts during service or maintenance. Without these in place, a machine could malfunction or start without warning, crushing workers’ limbs or exposing them to painful burns and shocks.

Machine guards can also protect workers from amputation hazards, but McLaughlin failed to install those as well. Machine guards can take several forms: photoelectric guards stop the machine automatically when the light field is disrupted, and restraint guards keep an operator from reaching into a dangerous area.

The industrial manufacturer was fined $43,000 for nine total violations, but that is less than the cost of even one serious injury. Abiding by nationally recognized safety regulations keeps workers safe and on the job, which helps everyone make money.

I Was Injured on the Job! What Are My Legal Options?

If you were permanently injured in a workplace accident, Larrimer & Larrimer wants to talk to you. To ask questions or learn more about workers’ comp, check out our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter.

[Did You Know: Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace.]

Larrimer & Larrimer, LLC—Columbus Workers Comp Attorneys

3 views0 comments

Comentarios


bottom of page