Missouri Workers Compensation for Conveyor Belt Injuries

If the employer fails to provide a safe working environment to the workers, they may be required to pay compensation to the worker in addition to the workers compensation benefits.

Conveyor belts are an indispensable part of any manufacturing process, and no assembly line can work without them. Unfortunately, conveyor belts can also be a source of injury if they are not maintained or operated properly. Lack of safety training and knowledge of the risks and dangers associated with working on conveyor belts also leads to accidents. If the employer fails to provide a safe working environment to the workers, and willfully disregards the mandated safety standards, and this causes injury to a worker, the employer may be required to pay compensation to the worker in addition to the workers compensation benefits.

Common Causes of Conveyor Belt Injuries

There are some scenarios in which the worker may be able to pursue a personal injury claim for a conveyor belt injury. The bottom line in such cases is that the injury is a result of negligent policies or actions. Here are some scenarios that may cause an injury to those working with or around the conveyor belt:

Improperly assembled conveyor belt – if the employer or supervisor fails to follow proper instructions when assembling the conveyor belt or any other machinery, it can put the workers at risk of an injury.

Partially or completely unguarded conveyor belts – it is important to place guard rails in locations where employees may accidentally place fingers, hands or feet into pinch points. If the employer fails to provide guard rails completely or partially, he may be held liable for the injury.

Hazardous speed of operation – workers can suffer crush injuries if their limbs get caught between the objects moving along the conveyor belt or between the conveyor belt and the object. If the workers are made to work on a conveyor belt that is running too fast, the employer may be held liable.

Defective design or equipment – if the conveyor belt injury is caused by a manufacturing or design defect then the injured worker may be entitled to compensation from the manufacturer of the belt.

Objects falling from conveyor belt – if the conveyor belt is overloaded with objects, some objects may fall. Depending on the location of the conveyor belt and weight of the falling object, the worker may suffer serious injuries. In case of an overhead belt, the falling object may cause a serious injury and even death.

Lack of safety training – if the worker is made to work on a conveyor belt without being provided the adequate safety training, then the chances of an injury become very high. In case the injury is caused because of the employer’s failure to provide adequate safety training, the employer may be held liable.

Obtaining Workers Compensation in Missouri

If you have suffered a conveyor belt injury at the workplace, you may be entitle to workers compensation benefits. In case the injury is caused by a design or manufacturing defect, you may be able to file a third party claim and get compensation from the manufacturer as well. It is important that you discuss your injury with an experienced Missouri workers compensation attorney and seek their on the right legal recourse.