How Workers’ Compensation Helps Reduce Exposure Risks for Temporary Recycling Workers

Temporary Staffing – Exposure for Recycling Workers

At recycling facilities, temporary workers play an important role in making sure bottles, cans, and other products are properly sorted and safely recycled. Unfortunately, they may also come into contact with dangerous substances.

At recycling facilities, temporary workers might encounter hazards such as:

• Chemicals, like solvents, lead, and mercury
• Bacteria
• Mold and fungi
• Human bodily fluids, like blood
• Dead animals
• Rotting food
• Sharp objects, such as broken glass or needles

When workers come into contact with dangerous materials like these, it can lead to many different types of injuries. For example, broken glass could lead to cuts and lacerations, while chemical exposure could cause lung irritation. Exposure to needles and bodily fluids also leads to an increased risk of certain diseases, including HIV and hepatitis.

Protecting Your Temporary Workers in the Recycling Industry

Since recycling workers face many risks, business owners need to take strong steps to prevent exposure-related injuries and illnesses. If you’re a business owner with temporary workers in the recycling industry, consider these safety steps.

1. Offer strong safety training. To prevent exposure-related incidents, be sure all employees—including temporary workers—are trained on how to recognize and handle exposure issues.
2. Provide PPE. Personal protective equipment (PPE) like cut-resistant gloves can help protect workers from lacerations and other injuries. If PPE is required, make sure temporary workers know when and how to use it.
3. Develop emergency procedures. If an exposure-related illness or injury does occur, having a strong emergency procedure can reduce the impact. Have a strong emergency plan in place, and ensure all workers know what to do in the event of an emergency.
4. Have a reporting system. Similarly, make sure temporary workers are trained on how to report injuries or concerns. With a clear reporting system, you can take swift steps to address and prevent injuries.
5. Conduct risk assessments. As a business owner, practice risk management strategies to look out for common risks around your recycling facility. Through risk management, you can identify hazards before they lead to injuries or health concerns.
6. Stay in compliance. Your business likely has state, federal, and industry specific requirements. By staying in compliance with all requirements, you can reduce the risk of exposure and other accidents.
7. Have strong Workers’ Compensation. Finally, have robust Workers’ Compensation coverage to help your temporary employees find care and support after an injury at work.

Get Extra Help with WCBIS

At Work Comp Business Insurance Solutions, we help temporary staffing business owners find the best Workers’ Compensation and payroll solutions. To learn more about our services and how we can help your temporary staffing business, visit us online at https://www.wcbis.com.