Here Are 8 Signs Your Workplace May Be Unsafe

Every worker deserves a safe workplace, no matter the industry. 

While loggers, commercial fishers and hunters, and roofers top the list of most dangerous jobs in America, anyone can be injured in any workplace if safety protocols are not followed.

A safe workplace is essential for protecting employees’ well-being, productivity, and peace of mind. Unfortunately, not all work environments meet safety standards, and some may even endanger employees.

Workplace Injuries By the Numbers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 2.5 million work-related injuries occurred in 2023, and 5,283 workers suffered fatal injuries.

In one well-known case, California fined Amazon $6 million in 2024 for labor and safety violations affecting almost 2,000 employees.

Private employers in Arizona reported 55,900 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2023. This means a total recordable cases (TRC) rate of 2.4 injuries for every 100 full-time workers, which is the same as the national average. In the state and local government sector in Arizona, 11,000 injury and illness cases were reported in 2023.

Thankfully, Arizona’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH) conducts unannounced inspections of workplaces throughout the state to determine whether employers are complying with the law. You can also do your part to recognize the warning signs of an unsafe workplace. Doing so is the first step toward addressing these risks and creating a safer space.

Look for These 8 Warning Signs of An Unsafe Workplace

Safety protocols in workplaces protect everyone. Hazards can be obvious or hidden, but awareness and preparation save lives.

Employee safety should be a top priority in every workplace, yet warning signs of dangerous work environments often go unnoticed. Here are eight red flags to look for:

  • No Safety Protocols

Without clear safety policies, employees may be unprepared for dangerous situations, leading to preventable accidents. 

  • Poorly Maintained Equipment

Malfunctioning machinery or outdated tools are serious safety hazards. Equipment should be regularly inspected and repaired to ensure it operates safely.

  • Insufficient Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Employees who aren’t provided with adequate safety gear—like helmets, gloves, or respiratory protection—are vulnerable to injury or exposure to harmful substances.

  • Visible Hazards

Obvious dangers, such as wet floors, exposed wiring, poor lighting, or blocked emergency exits, are red flags and can make accidents inevitable.

  • High Injury Rates

Frequent accidents may point to systemic issues such as poor training, lack of oversight, or unsafe practices.

  • Overworked and Fatigued Employees

Tired employees are less alert and more prone to mistakes, especially in environments that require focus and physical activity.

  • Poor Communication Systems

Workplaces that lack a clear reporting structure for hazards leave employees without a way to voice concerns.

  • Non-Compliance With Safety Regulations

Regulatory non-compliance endangers workers and puts companies at risk of legal penalties.

You’ve Been Injured At Work, Now What?

You should know your workplace rights. Under federal law, every worker in America has a right to a safe workplace. This list from the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health can help you discern whether your rights are being violated. (Guidance is available in English and Spanish.) After a workplace injury, follow these five steps to protect your health and legal rights:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention.
  2. Report the injury to your employer.
  3. Keep detailed records of any communication, doctor’s visits, and medical bills.
  4. Gather evidence, such as photos and witness statements.
  5. Contact a work injury attorney for guidance.

Acting promptly helps ensure you receive necessary care and fair compensation through workers’ compensation or other legal options. If you or a loved one have been injured at a workplace and you wish to discuss the specifics of your case in a free consultation with an experienced Tucson personal injury lawyer, please contact us today.