OSHA Issues Official Warning on the Dangers of Elevated Pallets

Warehouses are one of the most dangerous working environments in America. When one also considers how the loading, unloading, shipping, and storage of consumer goods is also one of the busiest industries in the states, it becomes clear just how many employees are placed at risk for serious and fatal work injuries. When companies fail to provide safety training or do not enforce safety rules, the risk becomes even higher. One prime example, and a topic of a recent warning from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is the use of elevated pallets.

Pallets are not designed for sitting or standing, and forklifts are not meant to hoist people up to high shelves. Unfortunately, these two actions recently led to the death of a warehouse worker. OSHA indicated that it was common practice for workers in that warehouse to use the forklift to hoist one another up to a metal shelf that contained inventory, and the workers would often stand with one or two feet on the pallet while moving it. One worker was doing this when he fell between the pallet and the shelf onto the concrete ground, eight feet below. He died just a few days later from the injuries that he sustained.

Although employers cannot stop every worker from making a critical or dangerous mistake, they are obligated to provide adequate safety training, certification, and enforcement. Those that operate heavy equipment are supposed to receive additional training and education. Unfortunately, not all employers adhere to these requirements. Failure to do so could make them liable for more than just workers’ compensation benefits.

Employees who are injured on the job are often entitled to compensation through the workers’ compensation system, but this support is rarely enough to support a family. Individuals who are injured because of employer negligence or misconduct – such as not providing proper safety training – could be entitled to more through a lawsuit. Sadly, winning such cases can be extremely difficult because the victim is usually the one who must bear the burden of proof.

If you or someone you love has been injured on the job because of an employer’s negligent behavior, contact Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard, LLP for assistance. Dedicated and experienced, our San Jose work injury lawyers will fight for the most compensation possible in your case. Get started by scheduling a free and personalized consultation. Call (408) 289-1417 today.

• OSHA warns about forklift-elevated pallets
• Fatal-Facts