You may assume that when you go to work each day, you are safe from injury. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Workers compensation cases are on the rise. Whether you work in an office, factory, restaurant or even a hospital, accidents can and do happen and sometimes those accidents can lead to financial compensation from your employer if they meet certain criteria for a workers comp settlement.
Government agencies closely track the data. Issues can range from repetitive motion injuries, machine-related accidents, exposure to chemicals, trauma, or back problems. Some types of injuries are more common among certain industries. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes the Injuries Illness and Fatalities or IIF database, which includes a calculator allowing users to estimate the incidence rate for their employer or industry compared to the national average.
There is no specific type of worker who is more at risk than another with the exception of dangerous jobs like construction, mining, or those handling hazardous chemicals. Interestingly, according to the CDC, younger workers are more likely to be injured at work, with the bulk of those injuries occurring for those working in the hospitality industry. The types of injuries among workers however remains varied but usually falls into one of these categories:
Repetitive Motion
Probably the most well-recognized workplace injury is called a repetitive motion injury. For example, carpal tunnel syndrome would fall under this category. This often affects people who work with computers seated typing all day, or those who perform repetitive physical motion when running machinery in manufacturing facilities.
Manufacturing or Assembly Line
Joints sustain exceptional wear and tear in these types of jobs, which create repetitive stress on specific joints that require long healing periods. Since the manufacturing and construction business requires workers to use machines that produce repetitive stress on a particular part of the body such as the arms, hands, legs or feet, it is these extremities that are the most vulnerable to injury that can lead to a workers comp settlement.
Hazardous Chemical Exposure
Mining workers, in particular, are at risk for prolonged exposure to fumes and various chemicals that can cause serious health problems, this is why spill kits, from companies like Storemasta, are needed to help get anything and everything cleaned up quickly in case of a spill. While many companies have improved their processes since the use of, for example, construction with asbestos, the industry is by no means perfect and some workers are exposed daily to compounds that may cause cancer. This kind of exposure can sometimes occur in science labs and testing labs too. Labs should utilize as many chemical storage cabinets as possible and store harmful chemicals carefully to avoid injury. Those using harsh chemicals should wear PPE at all times.
Trauma and Back Injuries
Jobs that involve a lot of heavy lifting or moving objects can put workers at risk of injuries like hernias. It’s surprising how quickly an injury can happen – one minute you’re feeling fine, and the next, you’re in serious pain from something like a hernia. If it’s severe, this kind of injury sustained at work can even lead to long-term disability.
Hernias and other serious such problems require surgery and very long periods of recovery away from work. To make matters worse, hernias are extremely painful and can happen in the groin, abdomen, or lower chest. Most do not go away on their own and the worker will require extensive treatment.
Depending on your case, you may be entitled to not only medical treatment but also temporary disability payments, which can vary depending on where you live. California disability insurance, for example, provides short-term disability insurance and paid family leave to eligible workers, with eligibility depending on various factors. You can also receive mileage reimbursement for doctors visits, medical appointment reimbursement, and when needed, future disability payments. Overall, these provisions aim to ensure that individuals who experience work-related injuries or illnesses have access to the support they need to recover and maintain their financial stability during periods of disability.
When it comes to getting the workers’ comp settlement you deserve, it can be achieved through a short or Long Term Disability Lawyer who deals with cases like yours every day. It’s important to get the medical treatment and legal advice that you need to ensure that you receive adequate income, fair reimbursement and have access to the medical care that will put you on a journey back to good health.
In conclusion, workplace injuries can happen to anyone, regardless of the industry or occupation. From repetitive motion injuries to hazardous chemical exposure, trauma, and back problems, the risks are varied and widespread. However, there are avenues for recourse and support available if you find yourself injured on the job. Whether it’s through workers’ compensation benefits, medical treatment, or legal representation, you can seek the assistance you need to navigate the complexities of your situation and ensure you receive the compensation and care you deserve. By understanding their rights and accessing the resources available, you can focus on your recovery and ultimately return to good health and financial stability.