Workplace injuries in Kentucky can be debilitating or even fatal, and there are specific safety dangers for workers who are 55 years and older. While the exact injuries that you might sustain while on the job also have a lot to do with what types of work you’re doing, there are some occupations that get more dangerous as you get older.
Older workers are especially prone to certain workplace deaths
If you think jobs that require manual labor and heavy machinery are most likely to put people at risk of injury or even death, you’re right. Some of the most dangerous jobs for people ages 55 and older include tree fallers, construction equipment operators, farm and ranch workers, construction managers and industrial machinery workers. Some of the jobs that you might not have expected include nursery and greenhouse workers, landscaping and groundskeeping workers, and supervisors of retail sales workers. Other jobs that are more dangerous for older workers include commercial pilots, taxi drivers and chauffeurs.
Avoid a lot of injuries at the workplace
While there are numerous ways that people in older age groups can be injured while on the job, there’s a lot to be said about workplace safety in general. For instance, protecting eyesight is very important. Avoiding eye injuries is often as simple as remembering to put on protective eye equipment while doing certain jobs. In fact, about 90% of workplace accidents are avoidable by simply using the correct precautions.
People who are 55 years or older have certain risks for getting hurt or even dying on the job, but anyone can get hurt while performing work for an employer. The best way to protect yourself is to ensure that you’re using proper techniques and equipment. If you do end up getting injured, an attorney may guide you through the process of filing for workers’ compensation.