An accident that occurs at work can be tremendously damaging, not only for the employer but also the employee. Employees go into work situations with the intention of being safe and productive, but this isn’t always the case. The workplace is full of potential hazards, and it’s important that both employees and employers have the tools and knowledge to protect against these accidents.

For an employee, there are a number of steps that can be taken to avoid becoming the victim of a work-related accident.

1. Always be alert when on the job. Being tired or unaware is one of the primary causes of work-related accidents. Ensure that you get enough rest and feel equipped to take on the tasks required of your job each day. Not only will this keep you safe, but you’re always more likely to catch the eye of your employer and earn raises, bonuses and promotions. It’s also important to remain focused, as well as alert. Daily distractions can get in the way of workplace safety, so as difficult as it may be, these should be left at the door when you enter your job.
2. Wear the proper attire required in your position. Whether your job requires you wear a uniform, or just particular shoes or head wear, it’s important that these items always be worn properly and all times when in the workplace. Following the suitable dress code is one of the most important ways to avoid workplace accidents and injury.
3. Don’t take a position you aren’t adequately trained to perform. If you’re asked to take a position, particularly one that seems dangerous or high-risk, you should always feel you have been properly trained. If you haven’t received what you see as the necessary amount of training to perform the duties of the job, don’t be afraid to ask for further training. You should be comfortable doing all tasks required of any given position.
4. Be aware of all signs and posters displayed in your place of employment. They aren’t just for decoration! If an employer posts signs or other forms of communication, read them and fully understand the message.
5. Be aware of any risks associated with your job or a particular task. Even if you have to ask a supervisor, you should have a sense of what type of situation you’re entering into, to better help you deal with possible dangers.
6. Educate yourself about any and all equipment required to perform your job well. Don’t go into the use of equipment blindly, no matter how simple it may seem.

Often, people wrongly assume that all workplace accidents are the fault of the employer. If an employee is performing his or her duties negligently, it is not the fault of the employer, which is why an employee should take as many precautions as possible to prevent accidents.

If an accident does occur, through no fault of the employee, there are compensation and legal options that can be pursued, through the counsel of an accident attorney.