Signs You Are Working in an Unsafe Environment

Many individuals may not notice potential hazards that are causing an unsafe and unhealthy workplace. Knowing the signs that you are working in an unsafe environment is imperative so that they can be reported and corrected. Not only can being aware help you avoid an workplace injury, prevent you from developing an occupational illness, and protect you from continued harassment, but it can benefit the others that you work with, as well. Read on for some red flags every worker needs to know.

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Overworked Employees

Overworking employees can become extremely dangerous and in some cases, even life-threatening. If you operate heavy machinery or work with various tools and equipment while on the job, then it is important to have regular breaks and time off in between each of your shifts. When you are overworked, it is much easier to become overtired or more stressed, leading to the inability to focus on tasks and manage machinery and equipment safely.

Workplaces that require employees to work extended hours without time for rest are much more likely to cause accidents and severe injuries.

What to Do if You Encounter Unsafe Conditions

If you notice unsafe conditions at work, your first priority should be your safety. Remove yourself and others from immediate danger whenever possible and report the hazard to your supervisor, safety officer, or human resources department. Document the situation with notes or photos, including dates, times, and details of the hazard. Prompt action helps prevent accidents and provides a record in case further follow-up is needed.

Physical Hazards

Physical hazards include things like exposed machinery, wet floors, faulty wiring, or poorly maintained equipment. If you encounter these, avoid using the unsafe equipment and mark the area to warn colleagues. Report the hazard to management immediately and request repairs or safety measures. Following proper safety protocols, such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), can reduce the risk of injury until the hazard is addressed.

Chemical and Biological Hazards

Chemical and biological hazards, such as toxic substances, infectious materials, or improper ventilation, pose serious health risks. Always use protective gear, like gloves, masks, or goggles, when handling hazardous substances. Notify your supervisor or safety officer about the exposure risk and ensure proper cleanup procedures are followed. Regular training and safety data sheets (SDS) should be available to guide safe handling and emergency response.

Inadequate Training and Systemic Issues

Inadequate training and systemic or management issues can make the workplace unsafe even when hazards are not immediately visible. If you feel unprepared for your tasks, request proper training before continuing work. For broader management problems, document your concerns and report them through the appropriate channels. Escalating unresolved issues to safety committees, human resources, or external workplace safety authorities may be necessary to ensure long-term improvements.

Lack of Safety Rules

Maintaining safety should always remain as a top priority for employers. If you currently work at a job that requires you to manage electricity, tools, equipment, and heavy machinery, then it is imperative to ensure that all safety rules are followed and enforced at all times. A lack of safety rules can lead to injury, illness, and even death depending on your surroundings and the work sites you spend most of your time in each day.

If you are working with harmful and potentially dangerous chemicals, then you should be provided with the following from your employer:

• Prevent lung-related diseases or chronic illnesses:
  • Proper gloves
  • Masks
  • Respirators

Safety equipment is necessary if you are working in construction or if you climb on ladders or various areas of buildings each day.

• Safety equipment on construction sites:
  • work belts
  • Wires
  • Clasp
  • Helmets

Hostile Environment

Working in a hostile environment can quickly become uncomfortable if you do not have the support of your employer or a reliable HR team to turn to file a vocal or written complaint. Harassment includes any behavior that is inappropriate for the workplace.

Some examples of harassment include:

• Workplace bullying
• Isolation
• Name-calling
• Sexual harassment

Sexual harassment is extremely important to address and eliminate while you are on the job. Without support from your employer or the inability to file a complaint, you may feel trapped and alone, leading to higher stress and reduced productivity. Hostile environments are not healthy and can lead to devastating and long-term emotional damage.

Once you have a clear understanding of what an unsafe work environment looks like, ensure you are only working in locations that are safe and worker conscious. Our Los Angeles employee rights attorneys at Levin & Nalbandyan, LLP are committed to the rights of employees who have been the victim of workplace discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, wage and hour disputes, and more.