New Jersey workers who are alone while on the job may be at a higher risk of getting hurt. This is because they may not be able to call for help or otherwise ask for assistance while working in an isolated area. Anyone who works in a factory during a night or weekend shift or anyone who travels for work may be classified as a lone worker.
A division of the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries created guidelines several years ago that employers can use to keep solo workers safe while on the job. For instance, employers should conduct risk assessments and conduct emergency response training with anyone who may have to work alone. Employers may also insist that workers stay in regular contact by phone or radio and check in when they have returned from the other job site.
Employers are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administrationto check on shipyard workers who are working in isolated or confined spaces at regular intervals. Although regular intervals are not defined, those working on their own for several hours should be checked on frequently to ensure their safety. Ultimately, the burden is on the employer to create a system that looks out for the welfare of the worker.
Victims of a workplace injury accident may be eligible to file a claim for benefits under their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy. Benefits could include the provision of necessary medical care, reimbursement of previously-incurred medical expenses and, in some cases, a percentage of wages lost when the victim was unable to return to work. Filing of a claim is time-sensitive, and an attorney who has experience in this area can often be of assistance to an injured worker throughout the process.
