On the Job Accidents and Injuries in South Carolina
Regardless of the industry, you work in or the type of work you do, on-the-job injuries can happen. Throughout the country, workplace hazards and accidents result in serious, potentially disabling injuries, making it difficult for workers to make a living and support their loved ones. While some states are most proactive in preventing on-the-job accidents and injuries, other states face severe financial impacts as the results of injuries that often could have been prevented. For residents of the Palmetto State, it is important to know the industries in which workplace injuries are most likely to occur, as well as the price our state pays in terms of dealing with the associated costs of these injuries.
Five Common Industries For Worker Injuries in South Carolina
The South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation (LLR) works to promote the health, safety, and economic welfare of residents throughout the state. As part of ensuring the safety of residents, the LLR operates the state’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (SCOSHA). South Carolina is one of just 26 other states to operate its own OSHA program, which requires employers to provide a safe and hazard free workplace to ensure the safety and health of their employees. Part of this job is keeping track of worker injury data, including the most common industries in which workplace injuries occur. According to the latest injury data from SCOSHA, the five most common industries in which on the job accidents occur in our state include the following:
- Natural Resources and Mining
- Education and health services
- Leisure, entertainment, and hospitality
- Trade, transportation, and utilities;
- Manufacturing
This lists contrasts somewhat with the national average, which also includes the goods producing and construction trades.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
The Financial Impacts of Worker Injuries
According to a February 2016 report in EHS Today, which provides health and safety news to professionals in the manufacturing, construction industries, South Carolina is listed among the top ten states in which poor worker health and an overall lack of workplace safety results in heavy financial impacts for the state. The EHS states that the average 500-worker employer in the Palmetto State can expect to pay out over $5 million for health and workplace safety-related costs, including worker injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. Maryland topped the list, paying out over $5.6 million in costs, while Idaho and Maine had the lowest figures, with both coming in at just over $4 million in costs. These figures can help to inform employers and worksite managers of the potential financial impacts they face from failing to place importance on workers safety and wellness.
Let Us Help You
If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, contact the Anastopoulo Law Firm today. Our experienced worker’s compensation attorneys provide aggressive legal representation to assist injured workers in getting the benefits they deserve. With offices in Charleston and throughout South Carolina, we can help; call Akim Anastopoulo today for a free review of your case.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
