(562) 698-6446
(562) 698-6446
At Hanning & Sacchetto, LLP, our Whittier workers’ compensation attorneys know that warehouse work is inherently dangerous due to heavy machinery, high stacking of goods, and fast-paced environments that demand constant attention and physical exertion.
That is never more true than it is for Amazon’s warehouse workers during their annual Prime Day event. According to Adobe, $14 billion was expected to be spent online during Amazon’s Prime Day sale this year, a 10.5% increase over the previous year ($12.7 billion) and an all-time high.
A Senate committee alleged in a recent report that Amazon’s annual Prime Day sales event is a “major cause” of injuries among the e-commerce giant’s warehouse workers following a year-long investigation into workplace safety at Amazon’s facilities.
The report says interviews with Amazon employees and internal data suggest the higher injury rates are caused by warehouse understaffing, “unsustainable productivity requirements,” and safety protocols often ignored as workers face increased pressure during sales events like Prime Day.
How Many Injuries Are Occurring in Amazon Warehouses?
During the Prime Day event, Amazon’s rate of recordable injuries—or injuries the company must disclose to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)—was over ten injuries per 100 workers, more than double the industry average. The Senate’s Health, Education, Labor, And Pension (HELP) Committee said Amazon’s total injury rate, which includes injuries the company isn’t required to disclose to OSHA, was just under 45 injuries per 100 workers.
The Senate HELP committee launched an investigation last year after a report from labor unions indicated Amazon’s injury rates were “systematically underreported.” Amazon has faced allegations of unsafe warehouse practices for years. Workers have alleged dangerous conditions at Amazon’s facilities, disability coverage violations, and high turnover amid alleged understaffing issues. The high-pressure atmosphere to meet productivity targets can sometimes lead to lapses in safety protocols, further elevating the risk of accidents. Top of Form
How to Stay Safe as a Warehouse Worker in California
Working in a warehouse can be physically demanding and sometimes hazardous. California’s labor laws and safety regulations are designed to protect workers, but it’s important to be proactive about your own safety.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe on the job:
Understand Safety Regulations and Rights
- Familiarize Yourself with OSHA Standards: OSHA sets and enforces standards to ensure safe and healthful working conditions.
- Know Your Rights: California workers have specific rights under Cal/OSHA. If you believe your working conditions are unsafe, you can report it without fear of retaliation.
Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Wear Appropriate PPE: This includes gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, and high-visibility clothing.
- Ensure Proper Fit and Condition: PPE should fit properly and be in good condition. Damaged or ill-fitting equipment can be ineffective.
Follow Proper Lifting Techniques
- Use Mechanical Aids When Possible: If properly trained and certified, utilize forklifts, hand trucks, and pallet jacks to move heavy items, or ask for help from coworkers.
- Lift with Your Legs, Not Your Back: Bend at your knees and keep your back straight to avoid strain.
Maintain a Clean and Organized Work Area
- Reduce Clutter: Keep aisles and workspaces free of debris and obstructions.
- Clean Spills Immediately: Promptly clean any spills to prevent slips and falls.
Operate Equipment Safely
- Receive Proper Training: Ensure you are trained and certified to operate any machinery or equipment.
- Perform Regular Inspections: Check equipment for any signs of damage or malfunction before use.
Practice Good Ergonomics
- Adjust Workstations: Make sure your workstation is set up to minimize strain on your body.
- Take Regular Breaks: Regularly stretch and change positions to prevent fatigue and repetitive strain injuries.
Stay Alert and Aware
- Pay Attention to Your Surroundings: Be aware of moving machinery, vehicles, and other hazards.
- Communicate with Co-Workers: Use hand signals, radios, or other communication tools to coordinate movements and tasks.
Understand Emergency Procedures
- Know the Exits: Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency exits and evacuation routes.
- Participate in Drills: Take part in safety drills and understand your role in an emergency situation.
Report Unsafe Conditions
- Communicate Hazards: Report any unsafe conditions or near-misses to your supervisor immediately.
- Utilize Safety Committees: If your workplace has a safety committee, bring up concerns and suggestions during meetings.
Continuous Education and Training
- Attend Safety Training Sessions: Regularly participate in safety training sessions offered by your employer.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest safety practices and regulations in the warehouse industry.
If you are hurt at work in California, it is crucial to act quickly and follow specific steps to protect your health and rights. First, seek immediate medical attention, even if the injury seems minor, to document your condition. Notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible to ensure your right to workers’ compensation benefits. Fill out a DWC-1 claim form provided by your employer and submit it to initiate the workers’ compensation process.
Contact Our Whittier Worker Compensation Attorney Today
Suppose you have been injured while working in an Amazon warehouse in California and are experiencing challenges with your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company, call (562) 698-6446 to schedule a free consultation with our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in Whittier today. We can help you understand your legal rights and options to pursue the best outcome for your unique claim.
