Machines can cause job loss and limb loss

In 1911 the American philosopher Elbert Hubbard wrote, “One man can do the work of fifty ordinary men. No machine can do the work of one extraordinary man.” Over a century later, his words ring true. Machines are taking over our workplaces in ways he could never have imagined. Yet amongst the machines, there will always be a place for humans. Sometimes that can be a dangerous place to be.

Amputations are a real risk working with machinery

When your workplace is a maze of robotic movement, you need to take great care to avoid getting caught up in the cogs of the machine. Cogs, belts, joints, grips and blades are just some of the many moving mechanical parts that could cause you severe injury such as limb loss.

Most machinery has safety features built-in. Those controlled by artificial intelligence (AI) often have more. They can sense you are there and take action to avoid harming you. Older machines rely more on you staying out of harm’s way.

The advance of machines and AI reduces the chance for human error. Yet, whether it’s a computer chip that controls the machinery at work or Bob from down the street, things can still go wrong.

Employers must ensure workplace safety

Your employer is responsible for ensuring your safety at work. They need to:

• Ensure that all machinery is checked and serviced regularly

• Ensure that workers are in a fit state to operate machinery

• Provide you with suitable protective equipment

• Ensure that safety guards are functional and emergency cut-offs are working

• Ensure the staff is adequately trained on the dangers machinery presents

If you suffer a workplace accident with a machine, you can claim against your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy, regardless of who or what is to blame.