The landscaping industry is often underestimated, and the dangerous occupation is ridden with many hazards and opportunities for injury. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 1,072 work-related fatalities in the landscaping industry from 2011-2021, in addition to the many non-fatal injuries that landscapers sustained. Here, we will explore some of these dangers that make injuries and fatalities incredibly common in the landscaping industry.
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Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals
One of the most common dangers in landscaping that can lead to several health issues is exposure to hazardous chemicals. Landscapers often work with hazardous chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers to kill weeds and maintain their plants. However, several studies have shown that exposure to pesticides and fertilizers can increase your risk of cancer and is linked to a number of other concerning health effects, such as damage to your nervous system. Using the proper personal protective equipment can help to reduce the adverse effects of these chemicals.
Electrocution
Electrocution is another area of concern for landscapers, as they often come into contact with power lines or electrical wires. It is not uncommon for a landscaper to accidentally come across a buried electrical wire while digging in the dirt and get electrocuted. Additionally, when landscapers are trimming trees from high above, they will likely encounter power lines, which, if charged with a high electrical current, can be incredibly dangerous and even fatal.
Improper Ergonomics
Another common reason why landscapers sustain injuries from their jobs is because they do not maintain proper ergonomics when performing their duties. Ergonomics is particularly important in landscaping as it is a very labor-intensive occupation that requires lots of repetitive motion and heavy lifting. Injuries often result when landscapers do not use the proper form to lift heavy loads. To avoid injury, landscapers must keep their backs straight, bend at the knees, and use their legs to lift (as opposed to their backs). Additionally, landscapers must refrain from jerking or twisting around while carrying a heavy object and avoid taking on more than they can reasonably and safely carry.
Cuts and Amputations
Cuts and amputations are other types of injuries commonly seen in the landscaping industry. To effectively trim plants, chop down trees, mow the lawn, and more, landscapers must use various types of complex machinery. If these pieces of equipment are not used with diligence and care, they can result in catastrophic consequences.
Slips and Falls
Slipping and falling is another type of injury that is commonly seen among landscapers. For example, a landscaper may slip on a slick surface or trip over a small hole in the grass. While less common, landscapers also run the risk of falling from elevated surfaces or ladders, which have much more grave consequences.
Extreme Heat
One last injury that results from landscaping is caused by extreme weather. Since landscaping is generally conducted for long periods of time outside, the risk of sun poisoning, heat exhaustion, and dehydration is very important. Thus, landscapers need to remain hydrated, take breaks, and wear appropriate sun protection when working in the scorching sun.
What To Do If You Are Injured As a Landscaper
If you are a landscaper and have been hurt on the job, such as from electrocution, chemical hazard exposure, or amputation, it is important to first seek medical attention. Your health and well-being should be your number one priority. Then, you will want to contact a Los Angeles work injury attorney who can walk you through the legal process of filing a claim for your workplace injury.
Featured Image by Manfred Antranias Zimmer from Pixabay
