Electrical accidents injure and kill workers in various occupations across the United States yearly. Electrical hazards in the workplace account for thousands of injuries each year and nearly one fatality every day, on average.
While some industries, such as construction, have a higher incidence of fatal electrical accidents, these hazards can be present in various occupations. This article discusses how electrical accidents happen at work, how to stay safe, and how our electrical accident lawyers can help you if you have been injured in a workplace accident.
Current Statistics on Electrical Accidents at Work
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that 126 workers died from electricity exposure in one recent year.
Other key statistics from the NFPA’s report include:
- Nearly 3 in 5 injuries were caused by direct exposure to electricity, such as direct contact with a live wire.
- Almost 45 percent of the fatal injury victims that year worked in construction and extraction occupations, while 20 percent worked in repair, installation, and maintenance occupations.
- Approximately one-third of fatal electrical accidents occurred in private residences, while one-third occurred at industrial sites.
Electrical accidents don’t have to be fatal to be life-changing. Consider these statistics:
- On average, electrical hazards at work cause about 4,000 injuries annually.
- Electricity ranks sixth among the most common causes of occupational injury in the U.S.
Common Causes of Electrical Accidents at Work
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that the following hazards are the most common causes of electrical injuries in work environments:
- Missing or discontinuous path to ground route for electricity
- Misuse of workplace equipment
- Contact with live power lines
- Improper use of extension cords or flexible electrical cords
- Inadequate ground-fault protection on the premises
Importance of Electrical Safety Measures
Workplace electrical accidents can be prevented by setting safety measures and establishing safety protocols for equipment use and protective gear.
Regular inspection of all equipment, including electrical repair equipment and machinery, can reduce the risk of injury due to faulty equipment. Employers can take proactive steps by providing proper safety gear for electrical work or work near live wires. Employers can also implement appropriate lock-out / tag-out procedures and other rules to prevent accidental electrocution.
Potential Options for Compensation for a Workplace Electrical Accident
Many South Carolina workers may be covered under South Carolina’s workers’ compensation program, which provides benefits to injured workers regardless of fault.
Workers’ compensation benefits include:
- Related medical bills and rehabilitation expenses
- Partial replacement of lost wages
- Death benefits
Workers’ compensation typically bars employees from suing their employers. However, in cases where workers’ compensation does not apply, or a third party is liable for the accident, an injured worker may have the right to seek compensation for their losses through a personal injury lawsuit.
Potential compensation from a personal injury claim includes:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages from time missed at work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Reduced quality of life
Contact Our Experienced South Carolina Electrical Accident Lawyers Today
Have you been injured in an electrical accident at work in South Carolina? If so, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses related to your injury. The experienced South Carolina electrical accident lawyers at Jebaily Law Firm are ready to review your case during a free initial consultation.
Contact us now to find out how we can help.
