Pilots are at risk of being injured every time they take a plane in to the sky. If anything goes wrong, there are few safety measures to prevent a plane from crashing or landing somewhere it shouldn’t.
Unfortunately, crashing isn’t the only risk for pilots. Other hazards may cause issues as well, such as attacks by passengers or crew members, getting a foot or other body part caught in the cockpit console while trying to exit and the risk of injury from heavy luggage.
What should pilots do to reduce the risk of injuries on the job?
The Federal Aviation Administration has a risk management handbook that all pilots should read and know well. This handbook goes over the hazards that pilots may face on the job, how to mitigate risks and how to handle unusual issues that may arise.
Pilots study risk management as part of their flight training, but there are still some things that they can do to be safer. For example, pilots should remember to:
- Be cautious when handling large baggage, whether it’s their own or a passenger’s. Lifting with the knees rather than the back is essential to prevent back injuries.
- Identify human risks early, such as angry or frustrated passengers, and decide if they should remain on the flight.
- Get enough sleep. Though this job often requires long hours and quick turnarounds, getting enough sleep is essential.
If you are a pilot and get hurt on the job, remember that you may be able to seek compensation through your workers’ compensation coverage. You deserve good medical care and support as you recover from any injury you suffer on the job.
