The retail environment is not generally considered dangerous. Many Hamden and New Haven residents work in the retail industry for various reasons. Getting hired is relatively easy, there is flexibility in hours and a retail job can provide financial support while going to school or a way to get out of the house and interact with people.
However, personal injuries can happen just as easily at a retail job as at a job involving heavy manual labor. Slip and fall accidents are common among retail workers, and if the employer is at fault, they could be found negligent.
Injuries can happen in many ways
When working in a retail environment, you could slip on a floor that has not been properly maintained, fall when going up or down stairs or stocking shelves or trip in a dark or cluttered area. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, falls from ladders are one of the main causes of workplace injuries. All these things can cause major injuries, including sprains, cuts, bruises or even broken bones.
If you work in a retail environment, you can reduce your chance of a workplace injury. Learn how to properly treat the floors to clean up spills and do your best to maintain a clutter free work environment. If you must use a ladder, always make sure it is working properly and use it the way it is intended. Rugs on floors should be laid flat to prevent a trip and fall.
Don’t be afraid to speak up
Finally, tell a manager or supervisor if you see something that could cause a slip or fall. If an injury occurs, proving employer negligence may be harder if they did not know about the problem.
You may do your best to stay safe at work, but your employer still has a legal duty to provide and maintain a safe work environment free from hazards. Victims of a workplace injury in the retail environment often face high medical bills and a loss in wages, in addition to pain and suffering. Damages in the form of compensation can help alleviate some of these issues.