California residents who work in machine shops know that these can be dangerous places to perform their job duties. The risks of chemical spills, fires, machine malfunctions, and other threats make it necessary to remain aware and attentive each minute of the workday. But the most diligent workers are sometimes unable to avoid injuries that are common to machine shop workers.

Workers’ comp experts identify the injuries resulting from the repetitive strain of lifting and handling materials as the biggest threat to machine shop workers. The injuries that come from making repeated motions are similar to those that happen when a person finds themselves stuck in an awkward position for an extended time. Common classifications for these injuries include repetitive strain injury, cumulative trauma disorder, repetitive motion disorder, and occupational overuse syndrome.

Individuals who work with metal parts use hand tools to complete their work. The risk of injuries from these tools increases when a worker chooses a tool not intended for a particular job. There is also an additional risk of injury when a hand tool does not receive proper maintenance, or the worker fails to comply with safety standards regarding the tool.

Machine shop environments sometimes include exposure to chemical hazards. Toxic chemicals are more of a threat to workers confined to poorly ventilated spaces. Machine shop workers may encounter both carbon monoxide and ozone gases while working. Threats from airborne dust and shrapnel can also become dangerous.

No injury is too small for your attention

In addition to the physical threats encountered by machine shop workers, many employees in these environments experience minor injuries that become much worse because of improper injury care. Workers should allow time for any injuries they sustain to rest and heal. There is also the issue of workers who do not report injuries due to a belief that doing so will jeopardize their job or cost them work time they cannot afford to lose.

Accidents in the workplace often result in injuries that affect the health of the worker. These injuries can also have a longterm effect on his or her ability to earn a living. The regulations that govern potential compensation for these injuries are comprehensive and can become a problem for individuals unfamiliar with the process to navigate. Injured workers with questions regarding what they should do next may find the answers they need by speaking with an attorney.