In many cases, this harm is catastrophic or even fatal. From a legal standpoint, employers are not absolved of responsibility simply because a worker is classified as “temp.”
At Kline & Specter, we represent seriously injured workers and their families in Philadelphia and across the U.S. With a legal team that includes five medical doctors, we understand both the physical and legal dimensions of workplace injury claims—especially when temporary workers are involved.
This blog offers insights into the role employers play and how they can safeguard temporary workers to minimize the risk of on-the-job accidents.
Why Temp Workers Are at Greater Risk
Temporary workers are more likely to suffer severe injuries because they often:
- Receive less training or safety instruction
- Are unfamiliar with worksite hazards
- Are reluctant to report unsafe conditions
- Lack clear supervision or role definitions
This lack of preparation and oversight places them in harm’s way while also increasing employer liability.
Legal Responsibility Still Applies
While staffing agencies may provide temp labor, host employers are still legally obligated to ensure a safe working environment. That includes:
- Providing hazard communication training
- Offering PPE (personal protective equipment)
- Enforcing proper safety protocols
- Ensuring clear supervision and accountability
When employers fail to meet these standards and a worker is seriously injured or killed, they may face civil liability. This is especially true if negligence, safety violations, or known hazards are involved.
What Employers Can Do Differently
Employers can take many steps to reduce accidents, including:
- Implement site-specific training for all temp workers.
- Clearly define each worker’s responsibilities and safety procedures.
- Maintain written, easily accessible documentation of all training and oversight.
- Regularly audit job sites for compliance and hazards.
- Foster a culture that encourages reporting injuries and unsafe practices.
Proactive prevention protects all workers, both temporary and full-time.
Seek Legal Help After a Temp Worker Injury
If you or someone you love was severely injured as a temporary worker, you may have grounds for a third-party or negligence claim. Call Kline & Specter at 215-772-1000 or submit our online form to discuss your case.
Kline & Specter provides free and confidential evaluations of potential cases. Kline & Specter handles cases in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. For cases outside those states, the law firm works with local attorneys in each state as applicable.
