Workplace injuries can devastate earning potential, but thanks to workers’ compensation laws, injured employees have support in times of financial need. For Amazon workers, there is an increased likelihood of personal injuries occurring when making comparisons with similar industries and work environments.
The difficult and demanding nature of the work at Amazon increases an employee’s exposure to dangerous conditions that can lead to injury. This is true for those in California working in the transport or warehouse sector of Amazon employment.
Pursuing a dangerous occupation
A retail job would not seem to top the list of dangerous work environments, but Amazon employees put their lives in danger when they clock in for each shift. The company often disregards safety procedures in favor of efficiency and productivity. The speed required to fulfill consumer demand causes employees in a variety of positions to work that end up leaving them injured and unable to work. Unfortunately, the laws intended to protect California residents in these situations are not always obeyed by Amazon’s corporate team.
Ignoring the legal obligations
Employees at Amazon locations in California are also exposed to work environments that are not compliant with OSHA safety regulations. Numerous citations stand against the company for ergonomic risk concerns, dangerously loud noise levels, amputation hazards and more. Tasks associated with serious injury risks include picking or packing orders, truck deliveries, lifting and storing items, shipping, conveyor belt processing and goods inspection.
California employees are at a disadvantage as it relates to personal health and safety in an Amazon facility. A safe environment is an employer’s responsibility, and injury protection is a legal obligation.