Workers in Connecticut may encounter serious hazards on the job, especially when they regularly engage in physical activity and other arduous work. Workplace accidents and injuries can cost businesses money and time, but they can be particularly devastating for workers who are hurt. People can be injured so severely that they lose days and weeks away from the job; some may become permanently disabled as a result of a workplace incident. However, many on-the-job injuries are actually preventable when employers encourage a culture of safety and take proper preventative measures.

Slip-and-fall accidents are the most common type of workplace injury. Up to one-third of all on-the-job incidents are related to falls, trips or slips, and they are the number one cause of workers' compensation claims. While a slip-and-fall accident may sound minor, the consequences can be catastrophic. These kinds of incidents can cause back and spinal cord injuries, head trauma, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, pulled muscles, sprains and strains. These types of accidents cause 17 percent of all workplace-related disabilities and 15 percent of all accidental workplace fatalities. Many injuries could be avoided by properly warning employees about wet, slippery or uneven areas; by marking hazards, employers can help to prevent serious injuries.

Accidents related to machinery are another common cause of workplace injuries. Factory equipment and boring, cutting and shaping machines can cause severe injuries if proper protections are not in place. Workers could face amputations or death if a limb is caught in a machine.

When people are injured on the job, they may face severe consequences, including extensive medical bills and permanent disabilities. Injured workers may wish to consult with a workers' compensation attorney about how they can protect their rights and seek the benefits that they deserve. A lawyer might also help workers hold employers that violate safety regulations accountable.