Why Retailers are Responsible for Providing Safe Shopping Conditions
Brian O Sutter
Workers’ Compensation
As a retailer, they are responsible for maintaining the property on which their business is located to better ensure safer shopping conditions for their customers. It is the property owner’s legal obligation to take all necessary steps to help prevent any kind of injury from occurring on their property.Fire Hazards
Fire hazards are taken very seriously by retailers because a fire hazard can result in serious injury or even death to their employees and customers. It is their responsibility to make sure that there are no exposed wires present within the facility and they will want to ensure that all chemical storage regulations are followed to help prevent any accidents.
The retailer is also responsible for training their employees regarding the proper use of the equipment and proper storage and disposal of flammable and combustible materials. They should also be aware of what needs to happen if there ever is an emergency and they need to maintain routine and regular inspections to ensure that their fire extinguishers and other equipment continue to work properly.
Lighting
Lighting is another potential hazard that retailers should consider to help prevent any accidents and injury on their property. Poor lighting can lead to an increase in trip and fall accidents because a customer or employee was unable to see something on the floor and as a result, they tripped.
Employee Training
Employee training is also important for a retailer when it comes to preventing workplace accidents and injuries for either the customers or the employees. Employees should be aware of how to provide first aid if someone is injured and they should know where all the supplies are located in case of an emergency.
What Happens When an Employee is Injured?
When an employee is injured on the job, they should immediately seek help and medical treatment for their injuries. They will then need to notify their supervisor about the injury and the details surrounding the accident, in writing, within thirty days of it happening. If this is not done, then the employee may be forfeiting their right to workers compensation because of the injury they sustained while on the job.
After notifying the supervisor, the employee should then complete their claim for workers compensation so that the process can begin, and they can start to receive their benefits.
After all this is done, it is important to continue to follow all instructions given to you by your doctor. You should also attend any hearings, submit to exams, and return to work when needed.
If at any time during the process, the employee feels that they are being unfairly treated, then they can seek help from an attorney that is familiar with their rights regarding workers compensation cases.
A lawyer will help you navigate the process of filing your worker's compensation claim and if the injuries are more severe and you are no longer able to work, then they can also assist you in filing for social security disability benefits.
Most states will allow an employee to sue for compensation for wage-loss benefits and medical expenses because of the workplace injury. However, many states will not allow an employee to also seek compensation for pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney will be able to explain all of the employee’s rights and make sure they have everything they need for their claim.