McDonald’s workers afraid of being injured at work

Many people in Colorado have heard that fast food workers are attempting to get their wages increased. Recently, McDonald’s workers at locations in 19 cities filed complaints with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration that they are concerned about being injured at work. Some believe that the complaints are part of the campaign to win higher wages, but their concerns still could turn out to be valid.

Reports indicate that OSHA has already begun investigating the workers’ claims. Some of the allegations include popping grease causing burns and no protective equipment for dealing with hot surfaces. Even when cleaning the grills, workers are required to leave them on, and without gloves, employees say they suffer from burns. Slip-and-fall hazards are also a concern for employees. Some allegations say that there is a substantial lack of training on equipment, such as the fryers.

The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health reports that these complaints are pervasive in the fast food industry. Representatives from McDonald’s Corp.say that it is the responsibility of franchise owners to ensure the safety of their workers, but the claims will be reviewed. Moreover, the company believes it is being targeted due to the wage issues.

Employees across the country have the right to a safe work environment. However, not all employers take this duty seriously, and people end up being injured at work. When that happens here in Colorado, workers’ compensation benefits may be available to cover costs such as medical expenses and lost wages. Depending on the severity of the injury, the receipt of additional benefits may be possible. Should a worker die from an on-the-job injury, certain benefits may be obtained by surviving family members.

Source: koaa.com, “McDonald’s workers detail burns, job hazards”, Candice Choi, March 16, 2015

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