Airline crews need to be provided with proper safety measures

Airline employees face many risks due to the nature of the work. These include everything from violence from passengers to outdoor surface hazards. People who work in this industry include pilots, flight attendants, baggage handlers and others. Each of these comes with its own hazards from which workers must be protected.

When airline employees get injured, there is a good chance that they will have to miss work. This can lead to workers’ compensation claims and other legal actions, depending on the circumstances. Here are some points to know about the dangers of the airline industry:

Environmental hazards

The heat and cold that come with the seasons can cause issues for airline crews. Some of these individuals work outdoors. This can lead to slips and falls when the ground is slick. It can also lead to hypothermia and hyperthermia when the temperatures are extreme. It is imperative that everyone who has to work outside stay hydrated and wear gear that can protect them from the elements.

Flight hazards

During a flight, the flight attendants are at risk of falling if there is turbulence. They are also at risk of being burned by hot liquids during the flight if the plane shifts or a passenger suddenly moves. Though minimal, there is a risk of being attacked by an irate passenger, too. The small space of the cabin and the close proximity of so many people on a flight also puts these workers at risk of contracting illnesses. Vaccinations can prevent this in many situations.

Ergonomic hazards

Almost every position on an airline crew is associated with bending, lifting, walking and sitting. Proper stretching and preparing for the shift, as well as using ergonomic gear, can reduce the risk of workers suffering from repetitive motion injuries and similar injuries that come from not having proper positioning when they are working.

Preventing accidents

One part of preventing accidents has to do with proper training. All airlines must provide workers with the information and tools they need to remain safe. They must take steps to encourage workers to comply with regulations. This can be a combination of consequences and rewards related to safety. In some cases, disciplinary action might be necessary for workers who refuse to comply with set safety practices.

When a worker is injured, missing work and needing medical care are likely. Workers’ compensation coverage can help to cover these costs. Injured workers should file a report of the accident as soon as possible.