Strangulation Hazards in the Workplace

Strangling is the compression of the neck that deprives the brain of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death. Strangulation is not the same as choking. Choking occurs when an object becomes lodged in the airway, making it impossible for the victim to breath. Strangulation occurs when external pressure is put on the victim's windpipe, preventing blood flow and thus, oxygen, from reaching the victim's brain. Although death can occur within minutes, strangulation is not always fatal. Victims who survive strangling can suffer long-term injuries to the neck and trachea and brain damage. If you were partially strangled at work or you have lost a loved one to a workplace accident involving strangulation, consider seeking compensation for your damages through a workplace accident claim.

Parents of young children are often urged to remove strangulation hazards like loose wires and window cords from their homes to protect their children from injury and death. Strangulation injuries to adults in workplace settings is an issue that is discussed much less frequently because it happens less frequently, but that does not mean that you should not be concerned about this type of accident in your workplace.

A worker can accidentally become tangled in a loose wire or cord, especially in an industrial setting where large, heavy cords and wires are in use. Less obviously, a worker can be strangled by a piece of heavy equipment or material if he or she is pinned between it and another object, such as a wall. Any time there is pressure on a victim's neck and throat, he or she is at risk of strangulation. Strangulation injuries and deaths in the workplace can be prevented by always having at least two people assigned to a specific job – if one worker is pinned between objects or tangled in a cord, the other can help him or her by cutting the cord, removing the object, or calling for help if he or she cannot help the victim alone. Because strangulation can cause death so quickly, it is critical that any worker who is suffering from pressure on the neck and throat receive immediate help and medical attention following the accident. If a victim becomes tangled in a cord and loses his or her balance, he or she can become suspended, which can result in injuries to the spinal cord as well and nearly always cause death.

If you are suffering from an injury due to a strangulation hazard in your workplace, you could be entitled to monetary compensation for your damages through a workplace accident claim. To learn more about your rights and options, contact our team of experienced San Jose workplace accident lawyers at Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard, L.L.P. to schedule your initial legal consultation with our firm. We proudly serve clients throughout the Bay Area, San Mateo County, Alameda County, San Benito County, Monterey County, and Santa Clara County.

• Hanging Injuries and Strangulation