Final answer:
Potential problems in the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory that may have contributed to worker deaths include locked stairwell doors, a poorly constructed fire escape, lack of fire safety measures, inadequate workplace safety, and corporal punishment.
Step-by-step explanation:
- Locked stairwell doors: At the time, it was common practice to lock stairwell doors to prevent theft, which prevented workers from escaping the fire.
- Poorly constructed fire escape: The fire escape quickly collapsed, causing workers on it to fall to their deaths.
- Lack of fire safety measures: The presence of cotton bales and oil lubricants made fires a common problem in textile factories.
- Inadequate workplace safety: Workers often suffered injuries from machines, resulting in severe maiming or death.
- Corporal punishment: Both children and adults were commonly subjected to abuse by overseers, resulting in injuries and sometimes even death.