THE STUDY ON WORKPLACE NEGLIGENCE AND INJURIES ON HOW IT

AFFECTS THE WORKERS WELL BEING – THE IMPACT OF OCCUPATIONAL

HEALTH AND SAFETY ON WORKERS AND THE COMPENSATIONAL
CLAIMS

submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements.

for the award of the degree in

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (BSc)

in

CRIMINOLOGY AND FORENSIC SCIENCE

by
MS. MADUMITHA. K (UNIV. REG. NO: 223461101026)

DEPARTMENT OF

COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

March 2025
DECLARATION

I am, Ms. Madumitha. K (univ. reg. no: 223461101026), hereby declare that the Project
Report entitled “THE STUDY ON WORKPLACE NEGLIGENCE AND INJURIES
ON HOW IT AFFECTS THE WORKERS WELL BEING – THE IMPACT OF
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY ON WORKERS AND THE
COMPENSATIONAL CLAIMS” is done by me under the guidance of Dr. Thilagaraj,
Professor, is submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree
in BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINOLOGY AND FORENSIC SCIENCE.

D
ate: Signature of the Candidate

Place: Chennai MADUMITHA .K

( Univ Reg: 223461101026 )

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that this Project Report is the bonafide work of Ms. Madumitha (Univ.
Reg. No: 223461101026) who carried out the project entitled “THE STUDY ON
WORKPLACE NEGLIGENCE AND INJURIES ON HOW IT AFFECTS THE
WORKERS WELL BEING – THE IMPACT OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND
SAFETY ON WORKERS AND THE COMPENSATIONAL CLAIMS” under our
supervision from January 2025 to March 2025.

Internal Guide Project Coordinator HoD

Ms. Priyadarshini J Ms. Keerthi S Dr. S. Geetha

Assistant Professor Assistant Professor Professor
CSE Department CSE Department CSE Department

Dr.M.G.R. Educational Dr.M.G.R. Educational Dr.M.G.R. Educational

and Research Institute and Research Institute and Research Institute

Deemed to be University Deemed to be University Deemed to be University.

Submitted for Viva Voce Examination held on_________________

Internal Examiner External Examiner

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We would like to thank our beloved Chancellor Thiru. Dr. A. C. Shanmugam, B.A., B.L.,
President Er. A. C. S. Arunkumar, B.Tech., and Secretary Thiru A. Ravikumar for all
the encouragement and support extended to us during the tenure of this project and our
years of studies in this wonderful University.

We express my heartfelt thanks to our Vice Chancellor Dr. S. Geethalakshmi in providing

all the support for my Project.

We express our heartfelt thanks to our Head of the Department,

Prof. Dr. S. Geetha has been actively involved and very influential from the start till the
completion of our Project.

Our sincere thanks to our Project Coordinators Ms. Keerthi S and Dr. Remya Mariam
Raju and Project guide Dr. Thilagaraj for their continuous guidance and encouragement
throughout this work, which has made the project a success.

We would also like to thank all the teaching and non-teaching staff of the Computer
Science and Engineering department, for their constant support and the encouragement
given to us while we went about achieving my project goals.

MADUMITHA.K
CONTENTS

S.NO TITLE PAGE

NUMBER

1. INTRODUCTION

2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE

3. METHODOLOGY

4. DATA ANALYSIS

5. RESULT AND DISCUSSION

ABSTRACT

Workplace negligence and occupational injuries pose significant risks to

employees' well-being, particularly in high-hazard industries such as
construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. This study explores the role
of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations in mitigating
workplace hazards and examines the effectiveness of compensation
claims in providing relief to affected workers.

A quantitative research approach was adopted, utilizing a structured

survey conducted among 108 professionals across these industries. The
study investigates key aspects such as workers’ awareness of their legal
rights, the influence of labor unions, and the implementation of safety
protocols within workplaces. The research also assesses the existing legal
framework for compensation claims and highlights areas requiring
improvement to better support injured workers.

By addressing critical workplace safety concerns, this study contributes to

a deeper understanding of occupational risks and the mechanisms in place
to protect workers. The insights provided serve as a valuable resource for
policymakers, researchers, and regulatory authorities in shaping more
effective safety regulations and compensation policies.
CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Workplace negligence is a critical concern in industries that expose

workers to hazardous conditions daily. The International Labor
Organization (ILO) reports that approximately 2.78 million work-related
deaths occur each year due to workplace accidents and occupational
diseases (ILO, 2021). Among the most affected industries are
construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, where employees face risks,
such as falls, machinery accidents, exposure to harmful substances, and
infectious diseases (Gupta & Sharma, 2020). Despite legal frameworks
designed to protect workers, negligence continues to be a major cause of
workplace injuries, often leading to economic, physical, and
psychological distress among workers.

1.1 Workplace Negligence and Its Consequences

Negligence in the workplace refers to the failure of employers or

employees to adhere to established safety protocols, leading to
preventable injuries and accidents. Studies indicate that inadequate
training, lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), and failure to
enforce safety regulations contribute significantly to workplace incidents
(Smith et al., 2019). In high-risk sectors, negligence can result in severe
injuries such as amputations, chronic illnesses, and even fatalities.
Furthermore, workplace accidents often lead to reduced productivity,
increased absenteeism, and financial burdens on both workers and
organizations (Brown & Taylor, 2021).

1.2 Occupational Health and Safety Regulations

Occupational health and safety (OHS) regulations aim to create safer

working environments by enforcing preventive measures and holding
employers accountable for workplace safety standards. The Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and similar regulatory bodies
worldwide set guidelines for hazard identification, risk assessment, and
safety training (Williams & Johnson, 2020). However, compliance with
these regulations remains inconsistent, particularly in developing
economies where workplace safety is often overlooked due to cost
concerns and lack of enforcement (Jones & Patel, 2022). Studies suggest
that improved OHS compliance significantly reduces workplace accidents
and enhances worker confidence and productivity.
1.3 Impact of Workplace Injuries on Workers’ Well-Being

The consequences of workplace injuries extend beyond immediate

physical harm, affecting workers' long-term well-being. Injured
employees often experience financial instability due to medical expenses
and lost wages (Brown & Taylor, 2021). Psychological effects, including
anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are also
common among workers recovering from occupational injuries (Gupta &
Sharma, 2020). Furthermore, the stigma associated with workplace
injuries may prevent employees from seeking compensation or reporting
safety violations, exacerbating the cycle of negligence (Smith et al.,
2019).

1.4 Challenges in Compensation Claims and Legal Frameworks

Despite the existence of compensation policies, many injured workers

face difficulties in accessing financial and legal support. Delayed
processing of claims, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and employer resistance
often prevent workers from receiving fair compensation (Williams &
Johnson, 2020). In some cases, employees are unaware of their rights or
fear retaliation from employers, further hindering their ability to seek
justice (Jones & Patel, 2022). Addressing these challenges requires policy
reforms that ensure timely compensation, greater awareness of workers'
rights, and stricter enforcement of workplace safety laws.

1.5 Objectives of the study

 To evaluate the extent of workplace injuries in construction,

manufacturing, and healthcare industries.
 To analyze workers' awareness of their rights regarding
compensation claims.
 To investigate how occupational health and safety measures
influence workplace safety.
 To identify gaps in the legal framework concerning compensation
for workplace injuries.
CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

The existing literature explores multiple aspects of workplace safety,

including corporate negligence as a form of white-collar crime, the role of
legal frameworks in compensation claims, and the psychological and
economic consequences of workplace accidents. Studies also examine the
effectiveness of forensic investigations in workplace accident analysis
and the challenges faced in enforcing safety regulations. Additionally,
research highlights the influence of labor unions, employer responsibility,
and workers’ awareness of compensation rights. Despite these insights,
gaps remain in understanding the long-term impact of workplace injuries,
industry-specific safety compliance, and the effectiveness of
compensation claims. This review synthesizes existing research to
provide a comprehensive foundation for further investigation into
workplace safety, compensation policies, and regulatory improvements.

2.1 Workplace Negligence and Criminology

Smith and Brown (2021) examined workplace negligence from a

criminological perspective, classifying corporate negligence as a form of
white-collar crime. Their study highlighted that systematic failures in
workplace safety often result from corporate mismanagement, lack of
accountability, and prioritization of profit over worker well-being. They
argued that corporate negligence should not only be treated as a
regulatory issue but also as a criminal offense in cases where safety
violations lead to severe injuries or fatalities. The study further discussed
how legal frameworks could be strengthened to hold corporations
accountable, including stricter penalties and enhanced oversight
mechanisms. Additionally, they emphasized the need for whistleblower
protections to encourage reporting of safety violations without fear of
retaliation.

2.2 Occupational Injuries and Legal Frameworks

Williams et al. (2020) investigated how legal frameworks address

workplace injuries and compensation claims, highlighting gaps in the
system. Their research found that while compensation laws exist in most
jurisdictions, bureaucratic inefficiencies, delayed claim processing, and
employer pushback often hinder affected workers from receiving timely
relief. The study also pointed out disparities in compensation benefits
across industries, with high-risk sectors facing more difficulties in claim
approvals. They argued that reforms are needed to streamline the
compensation process, including reducing administrative barriers,
increasing legal support for workers, and ensuring that claims are
processed without undue delays. The study concluded that more proactive
government intervention is required to ensure fair treatment of injured
employees.

2.3 Forensic Science in Workplace Accident Investigations

Jones and Patel (2022) explored the role of forensic science in workplace
accident investigations and how forensic techniques contribute to legal
claims and policy reforms. Their study emphasized that forensic accident
analysis provides crucial evidence in determining the causes of workplace
injuries, helping to establish liability and improve safety measures. They
discussed the use of forensic tools such as accident reconstruction,
toxicology tests, and equipment failure analysis in identifying negligence
or violations of safety protocols. The study highlighted several case
studies where forensic findings played a decisive role in court rulings and
policy changes. Additionally, they recommended that forensic
investigations should be integrated into workplace safety audits to
prevent future accidents.

2.4 Psychological Impact of Workplace Injuries

Gupta and Sharma (2020) examined the psychological effects of

workplace injuries, highlighting that many injured workers suffer from
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Their
study found that unsafe work environments contribute to long-term
mental health issues, often exacerbated by financial stress and lack of
employer support. They emphasized that psychological injuries are
frequently overlooked in compensation claims, making it difficult for
affected workers to receive adequate treatment and support. The study
also discussed the role of workplace culture in addressing mental health,
advocating for stronger psychological assistance programs, employer-
sponsored counseling services, and mental health training for supervisors.
They concluded that integrating psychological well-being into
occupational health policies is essential for a holistic approach to worker
safety.

2.5 Economic Consequences of Workplace Accidents

Brown and Taylor (2021) analyzed the economic impact of workplace

accidents on both employees and businesses, revealing that financial
instability is a major consequence of workplace injuries. Their study
highlighted that lost wages, medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and
reduced employability place significant economic strain on injured
workers. For businesses, workplace accidents lead to increased insurance
premiums, legal liabilities, productivity losses, and reputational damage.
The researchers also examined how compensation laws attempt to
alleviate these financial burdens but often fall short due to delays and
bureaucratic hurdles. They recommended policy changes, such as
employer-funded injury insurance schemes and wage protection
programs, to ensure financial stability for affected workers.

2.6 Safety Compliance in High-Risk Industries

Smith et al. (2019) studied safety compliance in high-risk industries like

construction and manufacturing, where workplace hazards are most
prevalent. Their research found that stringent enforcement of
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations significantly reduces
workplace injuries and fatalities. The study identified key factors
influencing compliance, such as regulatory inspections, corporate safety
culture, and worker training programs. They emphasized that workplaces
with proactive safety policies and regular compliance checks report fewer
accidents. However, they also noted that many companies fail to
implement safety protocols effectively due to cost concerns or lack of
awareness. The researchers suggested that stricter penalties for non-
compliance, coupled with incentives for businesses that maintain high
safety standards, could improve overall workplace safety.

2.7 Workers’ Awareness of Compensation Claims

Johnson and Lee (2018) conducted a survey on workers' awareness of

their rights regarding compensation claims, revealing that a significant
percentage of employees lack knowledge of their entitlements. The study
found that low awareness leads to underreporting of workplace injuries,
delays in seeking compensation, and financial distress among affected
workers. They identified key barriers to awareness, including inadequate
employer communication, complex legal language in compensation
policies, and lack of training on workers’ rights. The researchers
recommended mandatory workplace education programs, simplified
claim procedures, and legal aid services to improve awareness and
accessibility. They also emphasized the role of labor unions in bridging
the knowledge gap and advocating for workers' rights.

2.8 Challenges in Workplace Safety Regulations

Miller and Davis (2017) analyzed the difficulties in enforcing workplace
safety regulations, concluding that many organizations prioritize cost-
cutting over worker protection. Their study found that companies often
view compliance with OHS regulations as an economic burden rather
than an essential safety measure. They highlighted cases where safety
violations were ignored to increase productivity, leading to a rise in
workplace accidents. The study also identified issues such as insufficient
regulatory oversight, weak penalties for non-compliance, and lack of
resources for safety inspections. They recommended stricter legal
enforcement, increased funding for regulatory agencies, and greater
transparency in reporting workplace hazards to improve compliance.

2.9 Corporate Responsibility in Workplace Safety

Anderson et al. (2016) examined corporate responsibility in maintaining

workplace safety, arguing that organizations with strong safety cultures
experience fewer accidents and higher employee satisfaction. Their study
found that companies that prioritize worker safety not only comply with
regulations but also benefit from improved morale, reduced absenteeism,
and higher productivity. They emphasized that leadership commitment to
safety, employee involvement, and regular training are crucial factors in
fostering a safe work environment. The researchers also highlighted
successful case studies where corporate investment in safety programs led
to significant reductions in workplace injuries. They recommended
integrating safety performance into corporate social responsibility (CSR)
policies to encourage long-term commitment to worker protection.

2.10 The Role of Labor Unions in Occupational Health

Wilson and Carter (2015) explored the influence of labor unions in

advocating for workplace safety and improving occupational health
standards. Their study found that unionized workplaces often have stricter
safety policies, better enforcement mechanisms, and stronger worker
protections compared to non-unionized counterparts. They highlighted
the role of unions in negotiating safer working conditions, ensuring
proper compensation for injured workers, and holding employers
accountable for safety violations. The study also discussed challenges
faced by labor unions, such as resistance from management and legal
restrictions in certain industries. The researchers concluded that
strengthening labor unions’ role in occupational health advocacy is
essential for improving workplace safety and reducing injury rates.
CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

This study employs a quantitative research approach, using a structured

survey to gather data from professionals in construction, manufacturing,
and healthcare industries. The methodology focuses on assessing
workplace negligence, occupational health and safety (OHS) compliance,
and the effectiveness of compensation claims in supporting affected
workers.

3.1 Research Aim

The primary aim of this study is to assess the impact of workplace

negligence on employees' well-being and examine the effectiveness of
occupational health and safety regulations and compensate.ional claims in
mitigating these impacts.

3.2 Research Objectives

 To evaluate the extent of workplace injuries in construction,

manufacturing, and healthcare industries.
 To analyze workers' awareness of their rights regarding
compensation claims.
 To investigate how occupational health and safety measures
influence workplace safety.
 To identify gaps in the legal framework concerning compensation
for workplace injuries.

3.4 Variables

 Independent variables: Workplace safety measures, workers’

awareness, employer compliance.
 Dependent variables: Workers’ physical, economic, and
psychological well-being.

3.5 Sampling

A Purposive sampling method was adopted in the present study.

Participants were selected based on their work experience and
involvement in workplace safety and compensation claims. The study
includes 108 professionals from the construction, manufacturing, and
healthcare industries. The participants include workers, supervisors, and
safety officers with firsthand experience of workplace safety practices.

3.6 Questionnaire

A structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data, focusing

on workplace safety experiences, awareness of compensation claims, and
the impact of injuries on workers well-being.

Reliability of the questionnaire was established through test re-test

method. Validity of the questionnaire was established through face
validity after discussing with the experts in the field.

3.7 Data Collection

The data collection process involved an online survey distributed to 108

professionals from the construction, manufacturing, and healthcare
industries.Respondents were given clear instructions, and confidentiality
was maintained throughout the process.

3.8 Procedure

Participants were provided with an informed consent form before filling

out the survey. The survey consisted of multiple-choice to ensure
comprehensive data collection.

3.9 Data Analysis

Descriptive statistical methods were used to analyze the collected data to

conducted to assess the relationship between workplace injuries and
compensation claims.

3.10 Ethical Considerations

Ethical approval was obtained before conducting the study. Participants'

anonymity and confidentiality were strictly maintained, and they had the
right to withdraw at any stage.

3.11 Limitations

 Limited sample size may not fully represent all workplace

environments.
 Reliance on self-reported data may introduce bias.
 Industry-specific challenges may affect the generalizability of the
findings.

CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter provides an statistical analysis of the data collected for the
present study.The results of the analysis are given below.

The descriptive statistical analysis provides a clear overview of

workplace injury frequency, emotional distress, and financial challenges
faced by affected workers. Out of 108 respondents, a significant 72.2%
reported experiencing workplace injuries, with slips, trips, and falls
being the most commonly cited incidents (38 cases). On average, injured
workers required approximately 2.3 weeks to recover. Beyond physical
harm, the study highlights the emotional toll of workplace injuries, with
41.7% of respondents experiencing increased stress and anxiety, while
15.7% reported feelings of depression and hopelessness. Additionally,
13.0% expressed fear of returning to work due to safety concerns.
Financial instability emerged as another critical issue, as 28.7% of
injured workers struggled with medical expenses, and 22.2% reported
wage losses. However, 20.4% of respondents indicated that their injuries
had no significant financial impact. These findings underscore the
multifaceted consequences of workplace injuries, emphasizing the need
for stronger occupational health and safety (OHS) regulations and more
effective compensation mechanisms to support affected workers.

4.1. Comparative Analysis

4.2. Demographic Overview

4.3. Workplace Injuries and Their Prevalence

4.4. Emotional and Psychological Impact

4.5. Financial Impact

4.6. Compensation Claims and Awareness

4.7. Medical and Psychological Support

4.1. Comparative Analysis

4.1.A. Gender-based Injury Rates

 Male respondents reporting injuries: 45 out of 63 (71.4%)

 Female respondents reporting injuries: 32 out of 48 (66.6%)
 Key finding: Males experienced slightly higher injury rates, likely
due to higher representation in physically demanding industries.

4.1.B. Industry-based Injury Rates

 Manufacturing: 21 out of 30 (70.0%)

 Healthcare: 20 out of 29 (68.9%)
 Construction: 19 out of 27 (70.3%)
 Retail & Transportation: 10 out of 15 (66.7%)

The data analysis confirms that workplace injuries significantly affect

workers’ financial and emotional well-being. Industries with physical
labor, such as manufacturing and construction, report higher injury rates.
Workers often struggle with medical expenses, and many do not file
compensation claims due to lack of awareness.

The survey results provide significant insights into the impact of

workplace negligence and injuries on workers' well-being, financial
stability, and the effectiveness of compensation claims. The findings
highlight the need for better occupational health and safety measures and
improved awareness of workers' rights.

4.2. Demographic Overview

The demographic distribution of the respondents such as gender , age

group, industry of work and their experience in the industry are presented
below.
Figure 4.2.1.

Figure 4.2.2.

The survey included 62 male respondents (58%), 45 female

respondents (40%), and 1 respondent (1%) who preferred not to
disclose their gender which is displayed in below pie charts. The gender
balance in the study helps ensure a diverse perspective on workplace
injuries and their impact on employees.
4.2.B Industry of work

Figure 4.2.3.

The respondents represented various industries, with the most common

being:

 Manufacturing (29 respondents, 27%)

 Healthcare (28 respondents, 26%)
 Construction (25 respondents, 24%)
 Transportation (8 respondents, 7%)
 Retail (7 respondents, 6%)
 Others included law, consultancy, postal work, and students.
Figure 4.2.4.

The prevalence of respondents in manufacturing, healthcare, and

construction suggests that physically demanding jobs have a higher risk
of workplace injuries.

4.3. Workplace Injuries and Their Prevalence

The most common workplace injuries reported were slips, trips, and
falls, accounting for 57 responses. Other injuries such as stress-related
mental health issues (26 cases) and musculoskeletal disorders (20
cases) also had a notable presence. A smaller number of respondents
suffered from exposure to hazardous substances (25 cases) and
machinery-related injuries (17 cases). The varied nature of these
injuries suggests that different workplace environments present unique
risks that require targeted preventive measures.

Figure 4.3.1.
4.3.A. Causes of Workplace Injuries

Figure 4.3.2.

Respondents identified several factors contributing to workplace injuries:

 Lack of proper safety training: 30 respondents

 Unsafe working conditions (e.g., slippery floors, poor lighting): 19
respondents
 Fatigue and overwork: 22 respondents
 Faulty equipment or lack of protective gear: 53 respondents
 Negligence by employers or coworkers: respondents 12

These findings indicate that workplace injuries often result from

preventable factors, emphasizing the importance of proactive safety
measures and employee training programs.

4.3.B. Duration of Recovery

The duration of recovery varied among respondents:

 Less than a week: 57 respondents

 1–4 weeks: 30 respondents
 1–3 months: 10 respondents

 More than 3 months: 8 respondents

 Permanent disability: 3 respondents
Figure 4.3.3.

Figure 4.3.4.

These figures indicate that while most injuries are short-term, a

significant portion of workers experience long-term health consequences,
affecting their productivity and financial stability.

4.4. Emotional and Psychological Impact

A major consequence of workplace injuries is their emotional toll. The

survey found that 60 respondents experienced increased stress and
anxiety, and 30 respondents reported depression and feelings of
hopelessness. Additionally, 20 respondents expressed fear of returning
to work.
Figure 4.4.1

Figure 4.4.2

These findings highlight the critical need for mental health support in
workplace injury recovery programs.

4.5 Financial Impact

Financial hardship following workplace injuries is a significant concern:

 Struggled to pay medical bills: 40 respondents
 Lost wages due to time off work: 29 respondents
 No major financial impact: 21 respondents
 Increased debt or financial stress: 20 respondents
 Had to take up additional jobs or financial assistance: 20
respondents

Figure 4.5.1

These results indicate that a considerable number of workers face

financial distress due to workplace injuries, reinforcing the necessity for
accessible compensation systems.

4.6 Compensation Claims and Awareness

One of the most alarming findings is that 56 respondents did not file
compensation claims because they were unaware of their rights.
Other reasons included:

 The process was too complex: 18 respondents

 Fear of losing their job: 12 respondents
 Employer discouragement: 17 respondents
Fig 4.6.1.

Figure 4.6.2.

This data suggests an urgent need for better information dissemination

regarding workplace compensation policies and streamlined claim
procedures.

4.6.A Satisfaction with Compensation

Among those who sought compensation, 54 respondents were very

satisfied, while 22 were neutral, and 6 were dissatisfied.

Figure 4.6.3.
Figure 4.6.4.

These findings indicate that while some workers benefit from the
compensation system, there is room for improvement in addressing
workers' concerns.

4.7 Medical and Psychological Support

A concerning number of respondents indicated receiving no medical or

psychological support following their injury.

Figure 4.7.1

However, some responses suggested the importance of:

 Proper first aid training and emergency response measures

 Workplace safety awareness initiatives
 Access to psychological counseling services
The data collected from 108 participants across the construction,
manufacturing, and healthcare sectors provides a detailed and practical
understanding of how workplace negligence impacts employee well-
being. Among the respondents, a striking 72.2% reported experiencing
workplace injuries or health issues, reflecting a significant prevalence of
occupational hazards. The most frequently reported incidents involved
slips, trips, and falls, followed by stress-related mental health
conditions and exposure to hazardous substances, pointing to both
physical dangers and psychological strains in high-risk work
environments.

The emotional consequences were equally concerning. Approximately

41.7% of the injured workers reported increased stress and anxiety,
15.7% experienced depression or feelings of hopelessness, and 13.0%
expressed fear about returning to work. These emotional burdens
contribute to long-term psychological distress, often exacerbated by
inadequate support systems. Financially, 28.7% of respondents faced
difficulties paying medical bills, while 22.2% suffered income loss due
to injury-related absence. Only 20.4% reported facing no significant
financial consequences, underscoring the vulnerability of most injured
workers.

Despite the legal provision for compensation, many affected individuals

did not file claims due to fear of retaliation, lack of awareness, or
procedural complexity. Among those who did, satisfaction with the
process varied, and a considerable number reported insufficient medical
or psychological support post-injury.

These findings emphasize that workplace negligence has far-reaching

impacts, extending beyond the physical to include emotional trauma and
financial instability. The data suggests an urgent need for more rigorous
enforcement of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards,
comprehensive employee education on legal rights, and reforms to ensure
that compensation systems are accessible, transparent, and efficient.
Addressing these issues is crucial to fostering safer workplaces and
promoting long-term worker well-being.
CHAPTER – 5

RESEARCH FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION

5.1 Background of the Study

Workplace safety remains a pressing concern in labor-intensive industries

such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. Despite the
existence of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guidelines, a
significant number of workers continue to suffer from injuries and long-
term consequences due to employer negligence, poor safety compliance,
and gaps in the legal framework for compensational claims. This study
was initiated to assess the impact of workplace negligence on the well-
being of workers and to examine the effectiveness of compensation
mechanisms within the current occupational safety landscape. Through
the lens of quantitative research and supported by a review of literature,
the study aimed to understand how injuries, emotional and financial
distress, and inadequate institutional support systems affect workers’
lives.

5.2 Need and Significance of the Study

This research addresses a critical gap in the ongoing discourse on

workplace safety by combining empirical data with a comparative
industry focus. While previous studies have examined individual aspects
such as legal frameworks, emotional impacts, or financial burdens in
isolation, this study integrates these elements to offer a comprehensive
perspective. It is especially significant in the context of modern labor
laws, where the disconnect between policy and practice often leaves
injured workers underprotected. The study also highlights the need to
make compensation processes more accessible and effective, drawing
attention to organizational accountability and regulatory enforcement. In
doing so, it provides a valuable resource for policymakers, employers,
labor unions, and legal authorities.

5.3 Main Findings of the Study

The structured survey conducted among 108 professionals across the

construction, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors revealed several key
findings:
 Prevalence of Injuries:

A substantial 72.2% (78 respondents) reported experiencing

workplace injuries or health issues. The most commonly reported
causes included slips, trips, and falls—indicating a lack of basic safety
measures.

 Emotional Impact:

Over 70% of injured respondents acknowledged emotional

distress due to their injuries. 45 participants (41.7%) reported
increased stress and anxiety, 17 (15.7%) experienced depression
and hopelessness, and 14 (13.0%) were afraid of returning to work
due to lingering fears of re-injury.

 Financial Consequences:

The financial burden was notably high, with 31 respondents

(28.7%) struggling to pay medical bills and 24 (22.2%) facing
wage losses. Only 22 respondents (20.4%) indicated no
significant financial impact, suggesting that compensation and
employer support remain inadequate for many.

 Compensation Claims:

While a majority attempted to access legal relief, there was

inconsistency in outcomes. The approval rate and timelines for
compensation varied, reflecting inefficiencies in claim processing
and limited legal awareness among workers.

 Access to Support Services:

Less than half of the injured respondents received adequate

support, either medical or psychological. Some had to manage
recovery independently, reflecting a lack of structured post-injury
support systems in workplaces.

 Awareness Gaps:

Many respondents lacked awareness of their rights under OHS

laws and compensation frameworks, leading to underreporting of
incidents and hesitancy in pursuing legal claims. This mirrors
Johnson and Lee’s (2018) findings and highlights an urgent need
for worker education.

 Employer Accountability and Safety Compliance:

The root causes of many injuries were preventable, such as missing

safety equipment or poor training. This reinforces literature
emphasizing the role of corporate negligence and insufficient
safety regulation enforcement (Smith et al., 2021; Miller & Davis,
2017).

5.4 Recommendations

Based on the study's insights, several key recommendations are proposed:

1. Strengthen OHS Enforcement: Regulatory bodies must improve

workplace inspections and impose stricter penalties for non-
compliance, especially in high-risk sectors.
2. Streamline Compensation Claims: Compensation systems should
be simplified and made more accessible, with reduced delays and
clearer guidance to support affected workers.
3. Enhance Legal Awareness: Workers should receive regular
training on their rights, claim processes, and available support
systems to empower them in case of injury.
4. Integrate Post-Injury Care: Employers must provide both
medical treatment and psychological counseling to ensure complete
recovery and support for injured employees.
5. Encourage Union Involvement: Strengthening labor unions can
improve negotiation for better safety standards and support injured
workers in navigating legal claims.
6. Promote Employer Responsibility: Companies should cultivate
safety-first cultures by investing in equipment, training, and
proactive risk assessments.

5.5 Implications for Workplace Safety Policies

The findings underscore the need for stronger workplace safety policies,
including:

 Mandatory safety training programs to equip workers with

knowledge on injury prevention.
 Regular workplace inspections and hazard assessments to
identify and mitigate risks.
 Stronger enforcement of occupational health and safety
regulations to ensure compliance by employers.
 Improved reporting mechanisms for workplace injuries to
encourage transparency and accountability.

5.6 Conclusion

This study confirms that workplace negligence has far-reaching

consequences on employee well-being, impacting not only physical
health but also emotional and financial stability. The findings highlight
that despite existing regulations, enforcement remains weak, and
compensation mechanisms are often insufficient or inaccessible. By
examining multiple dimensions of emotional, legal, financial, and
organizational, the research provides a robust framework for
understanding the depth of these issues.

To bridge the gap between policy and practice, it is crucial that

stakeholders like employers, policymakers, unions, and legal institutions
to collaborate to create safer, more supportive, and legally sound
environments for workers. This study offers timely and actionable
insights that can guide the development of future occupational safety
standards and reinforce the accountability needed to protect every
worker’s right to safety, dignity, and justice in the workplace.

The study concludes that workplace negligence must be treated not only
as a policy issue but also as a socio-legal concern that demands both
preventive and corrective measures. Addressing the gaps in safety
regulations and compensation frameworks is crucial for protecting worker
well-being and ensuring justice for those affected by occupational
hazards.
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