Loading docks are used at many warehouses, factories, industrial buildings, and retail businesses to deliver and pick up goods and equipment throughout the Augusta area. This can be time-saving for businesses and the workers who must unload and load delivery trucks. However, the docks can become very congested, and workplace accidents are common. Workers can suffer serious injuries that require them to be off work for months or longer while they recover. Fortunately, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to pay their medical bills and to replace lost wages under Georgia law.

Common Causes of Loading Dock Accidents

A loading dock can be a flush dock, which is level with the outside of the building, or a dock inside a business or industrial site that a truck can drive into. Workplace accidents can occur at both types of dock. Common reasons workers are injured include:

Slip and Fall Accidents

One of the most frequent mishaps on a loading dock is a slip and fall accident. Floors can become dangerously slippery when oil, water, other liquids, or debris are not cleaned up.

Falls

Workers can fall off the edge of the dock if the dock door is left open or there are no barricades installed at the dock entrance. In addition, they can suffer catastrophic injuries if they fall from heights on a ladder or from a forklift or other industrial equipment.

Loads

When loads are not properly stacked or secured, the load can shift and fall onto workers when they begin emptying the truck. If the cargo is heavy, a victim can be crushed and suffer catastrophic injuries and death.

Forklifts

Unfortunately, some forklift accidents occur when the operator does not see nearby co-workers and strikes them. Other catastrophic injuries can result if the forklift tips over or falls off the dock.

Backup Accidents

Some accidents happen when the truck is backing up into the docking area and the trucker does not check his blind spots or simply fails to see those nearby. The injuries can be fatal if employees are crushed between the truck and a nearby wall, dock, or other equipment.

Toxic Chemicals

Depending on the type of business and the materials being unloaded, workers can be exposed to hazardous chemicals and other dangerous substances. This can cause them to suffer occupational illnesses, such as respiratory diseases or cancer—sometimes life-threatening.

Overexertion Injuries

Individuals in loading docks often work in awkward positions, carry heavy loads, and perform repetitive movements. This can cause them to suffer injuries to their backs, shoulders, neck, knees, and spine that can cause chronic pain and limitations in movement that prevent them from working.

Have You Been Injured At Work?

If you’ve been injured on the job, you need to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer from Chris Hudson Law Group as soon as possible.