There are some risks in the workplace that you just can’t avoid. Maybe you have to use certain tools and machines or you have to work at heights. They are always going to be some risks that you face.
But you also want to know how to reduce those risks as much as possible. You may be wondering if having long hair could make it more likely that you will suffer an injury.
OSHA warns of the dangers
It is true that long hair can be dangerous in some situations, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) warns that workers should not use certain machines with long hair. If they do have long hair, they are advised to cover it up entirely or tie it up so that is out of harm’s way.
The clearest example of how this can be a problem is in a lathe or some sort of machine with turning gears and parts. If hair gets caught in the machine, it can get tangled up very quickly and workers can be pulled into that machine. In the worst cases, situations like this have led to fatal injuries.
It all happens very fast. You may think you’re working carefully and keeping your hair away from the machine, but you could get tangled in a split second. If there’s no one else there to turn the machine off right away, you may not be able to reach the button yourself. It’s far better to consistently practice safety by keeping your hair up or covered than hoping you can avoid an accident as it happens.
That being said, even doing everything in your power to stay safe, you could still be injured at work. If you do suffer serious injuries, you need to know how to get the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.