The grain handling industry provides a necessary source of income to many residents in Omaha and other areas in Nebraska. These workers are grateful to have a job that is secure and pays fairly well, but it is critical to understand the hazards associated with this wide-spread industry.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), grain handling is a high-risk occupation with many workplace accident hazards. The following section highlights several of the workplace accident and illness risks inherent to the industry.
- Those who suffer engulfment in bins by fast-flowing grain can die from suffocation.
- The combustible nature of grain dust often leads to dangerous explosions or fires, which can kill or seriously injure workers.
- Many grain workers experience entanglement and amputation injuries from handling and using machinery.
- Illness or death may occur from exposure to hazardous atmospheres caused by grain spoilage, mold or industry-related chemicals.
- Falling from heights is also a great risk in the grain handling industry and could result in severe bone breaks, brain injury or even death.
Staying alert to these and other hazards can save you from a potentially fatal workplace accident. If you have concerns about the safety of your job, consider speaking with your superiors about how to minimize the hazards. Those who have already suffered from job-related injuries can rely on workers’ compensation claim to pay for medical treatment and to replace lost wages.
You should also know that it is your legal right to file for your workers’ comp benefits. If you face obstacles exercising this right, please consider asking an attorney for assistance with your claim.