Many railroad injuries are based on the use of heavy machinery and hazardous conditions. For example, railroad workers have to be wary not to be caught between train cars or not to touch certain electrical lines. Accidents often lead to crush injuries, amputations, burns and other serious physical concerns.
However, it is important to remember that there are many different hazards that workers may face on the job, such as exposure to hazardous materials. Even when heavy machinery works properly, how could workers still be injured?
Chemical exposure
One example could be if a train is carrying chemicals, and a leak or an improper seal exposes the workers to these chemicals. They could be very dangerous if they’re inhaled, and some mixtures of chemicals can even be fatal. Workers need to have all of the proper personal protective equipment, they need to know what types of materials they’re handling and they need proper training so that they can do this safely.
The good news is that some reports claim safety in the railroad industry has been improving lately when it comes to hazardous materials. The downside to this is that many experts now believe that rail is the very best way to move these hazardous materials in a safe and controlled manner. This can be true when it is done properly, but this perspective may lead to increased railroad use for this purpose. That only leads to increased exposure and more risks for workers.
Those who have been injured on the job, regardless of the reason, need to know about all of the legal steps they can take.
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