Work-Related Injuries Caused by Malfunctioning Machinery

There are thousands of different types of machinery and equipment that are used in a work environment, exposing work to many potential injuries.

A worker who suffers work-related injuries is typically not allowed to file a lawsuit against the employer; however, the injured employee may claim benefits under the workers’ compensation system. If the injury has occurred as a result of malfunctioning machinery, a worker may be able to file damages against the manufacturer of the machinery. A Missouri workers’ compensation attorney from The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann can provide guidance for these types of third-party claims.

Types of Injuries Caused by Malfunctioning Machinery

Accidents can happen even when the machine operator is working with extreme caution. This is because of possible defects in the machinery or equipment, and such an accident can lead to serious, even fatal injuries to a worker. There are thousands of different types of machinery and equipment that are used in a work environment. Some of the most common injuries that occur due to defective machinery or equipment include the following:

• Crushed limbs: Normally, all equipment that contains moving parts has safeguards to protect workers from injury. If the equipment is defective or it malfunctions, employees may become injured when they come in contact with the moving parts. Such accidents might cause crush injuries to the fingers, arms, or legs of workers.
• Amputation: Heavy equipment used for cutting, shearing, or moving objects can be a source of severe injuries if any of the equipment safeguards fail.
• Impact injuries: A worker can become severely injured by a piece of equipment that breaks and falls on the employee. The worker can also get injured if a broken piece of equipment causes him or her to fall. This type of accident can cause fractures, blindness, and traumatic brain injuries.

Liability in Work-Related Accidents Caused by Defective Machinery

If an employee gets injured because of defective machinery or equipment, it may be difficult for the victim to build a legal case as it usually depends on the type of malfunction. If it is a manufacturing or design defect, then it would be the liability of the manufacturer. The worker may be eligible to file a third-party claim against the manufacturer. If the machinery became defective due to usage and the employer knew about this and chose not to repair or replace it, then it is the employer who will be liable. The injuries caused by defective machinery can lead to a complex situation. There are certain laws that protect the employer from liability. Under the workers’ compensation system, an injured worker is not allowed to file a lawsuit against the employer for work-related injuries.

Workplace Injury and Accident Causes