Industrial workplaces across Georgia, from manufacturing plants to construction sites, are filled with potential hazards. Heavy machinery, toxic chemicals, and high-risk tasks make these environments dangerous for workers. When safety protocols are ignored, or equipment fails, employees can suffer severe injuries that impact their health, finances, and ability to work.
If you or a loved one has been harmed on the job, understanding the most common industrial incidents and how to file an injury claim can help you protect your rights and secure the compensation you need. Here, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry explain.
Common Industrial Workplace Hazards
Industrial work environments often expose employees to significant risks.
Some of the most frequent causes of workplace injuries in Georgia include:
- Falls from Heights
Scaffolding, ladders, and elevated platforms are common in warehouses and construction sites. Improper fall protection, weak railings, and unstable structures increase the likelihood of serious harm.
- Machinery Malfunctions
Heavy equipment such as forklifts, conveyor belts, and presses can cause devastating injuries when they malfunction or are used improperly. Employers must ensure that workers receive adequate training and that machines are regularly maintained.
- Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals
Exposure to toxic substances in industrial plants can result in chemical burns, respiratory conditions, and poisoning. Proper safety gear and ventilation are necessary to protect employees from harmful exposure.
- Electrical Injuries
Faulty wiring, unsafe equipment, and high-voltage machinery put workers at risk of electrocution or severe burns. Employers must follow strict safety protocols to prevent these incidents.
- Falling or Shifting Objects
Items stored improperly on high shelves or unstable surfaces can fall and cause head, neck, or spinal injuries. Hard hats and proper storage practices help reduce these dangers.
Filing an Injury Claim After a Workplace Incident
Workers harmed in industrial settings have legal options to seek compensation for their injuries. Depending on the circumstances, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits or a personal injury claim.
Most employers in Georgia must provide workers’ compensation coverage, which offers financial assistance to employees hurt on the job.
Benefits may include:
- Medical Coverage – Pays for doctor visits, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Income Benefits – Replaces a portion of lost wages during recovery.
- Disability Benefits – Provides compensation if the injury results in long-term impairment.
When a Personal Injury Claim May Be an Option
While workers’ compensation covers most workplace injuries, there are cases where an injured worker may also file a personal injury lawsuit.
These include:
- Negligence by a Third Party – If someone other than the employer, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer, caused the harm.
- Defective Equipment – If a faulty machine or unsafe product contributed to the injury.
Industrial injuries can leave workers struggling with medical bills, lost income, and long-term disabilities. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, we understand the challenges injured employees face and fight to secure the compensation they need. Whether through workers’ compensation or a personal injury claim, we hold responsible parties accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been harmed in an industrial setting. We may be able to help you recover the financial support you deserve.