Houston Electrocution Injury Attorney
Electrocution is the fifth leading cause of occupational injury and death in the United States. Studies have shown the highest number of electrocution injuries and deaths occurred among:
- electricians and electrical helpers
- utility workers
- construction workers and
- those working in the manufacturing industries
Studies also confirm that fatal electrocutions occur mostly among male workers ages 20-34. The major source of electrocutions has been found to be contact with overhead lines.
Watch on YouTube: Workplace Electrocution Injury Facts
Causes and Prevention of Electrocution Injuries
In a study published by Injury Prevention, it was found that 41% of fatal electrocutions resulted from contact with live overhead power lines. The mode of electrocution contact between a piece of equipment or machinery and a charged line including:
- Cranes touching charged overhead lines,
- Ladders coming into contact with overhead lines,
- Boom vehicles or lifts contacting charged lines, or
- Metal tools contacting lines.
These injuries and deaths are preventable. Employers and site owners can take precautions to protect workers from this common and highly dangerous occupational hazard. Employers and site operators must:
- Established safe work procedures
- Provide personal protective equipment and require that it be worn
- Implement lockout/tagout procedures and require that these procedures be followed
- Comply with existing OSHA regulations
- Following National Electrical and National Electrical Safety Codes
- Train workers and supervisors on electrical safety
- Request that the power company de-energize power lines that are close to the worksite during construction
- Provide adequate clearance between construction zones and power lines
All supervisors and workers should receive hazard awareness training, so they can identify potential and existing hazards in the workplace. Once reported, employers and site operators must take steps to correct the hazard.
Contact a Houston Electrocution Injury Attorney
Continued vigilance with respect to safety training is needed in order to protect workers from the danger of on the job electrocution. Employers must also enforce safety regulations and adhere to OSHA regulations and electrical codes.
The damage from electrocutions can be devastating. Workers can be killed, lose limbs, or suffer burn injuries. Given the severity of the injuries involved, employers cannot turn a blind eye to safety and elimination of electrocution hazards.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a workplace electrocution injury, contact Chelsie King Garza for a free consultation today.
