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Workplace injuries are more common than people think and can happen every day in any company or industry.
All employers must comply with some occupational safety parameters to ensure that their workers are not at risk of injury while on the job. However, workplace accidents always happen.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), around 2.8 million non-fatal work-related injuries occur annually, including many that are commonly overlooked. Here's a look at some of them!
#1 Repetitive Stress Injury
It's one of the most common – but often overlooked – occupational injuries reported in the United States. It occurs when workers periodically perform the same motions, affecting vulnerable or already injured body parts.
Overall, repetitive stress injuries happen when employers fail to guarantee optimal work ergonomics conditions or employees are not properly trained.
Unfortunately, a repetitive stress injury or RSI can cause long-lasting disabilities. Victims can also face different financial difficulties due to costly treatments and loss of earning capacity.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the most common workplace injuries that fall into this category are the following:
Carpal tunnel syndrome: Although it's common among office workers, anyone can suffer from this syndrome, which can also hurt the wrist and affect a person's ability to work.
Injuries caused by inflammations: The most common repetitive stress injuries also include those caused by inflammation, such as stenosing tenosynovitis (popularly known as trigger finger), De Quervain's Disease, or tendonitis.
Tennis elbow: Also known as lateral epicondylitis, it's often the result of repetitive movements or positions when performing a task for prolonged periods, such as doing dental or medical exams, painting, operating tools, and more.
#2 Hearing Loss
Construction workers and other people who are constantly exposed to loud noises may also experience hearing loss. It's another common workplace injury.
That's why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established strict regulations on how companies or employers must handle loud noises and protect workers.
#3 Eye Injuries
Workers may also be at risk of eye injuries, which can be caused by continuous strain.
Those who stay at computer monitors for long periods or work in environments where there may be airborne particles or flying debris around are more vulnerable to these injuries.
#4 Lung Illnesses
Exposure to industrial chemicals is another key reason behind many common workplace injuries.
When exposed to airborne particles over long periods, people can suffer severe lung damage, which can permanently harm a person's health.
#5 Mental Health Problems
Some workers may also suffer mental health problems due to stressful jobs, which can negatively affect their well-being. This category includes depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
#6 Hearth Attack or Stroke
Furthermore, high-stress jobs can negatively affect a person's internal health, impacting their blood pressure and mood. In these cases, workers become more vulnerable to heart attacks and strokes, even if they don't happen in the workplace.
Who Can Suffer These Injuries?
NSC labor statistics show that construction workers are the fifth most likely to suffer occupational injuries. OSHA says they are at the greatest risk, noting that one to five worker deaths occur in this industry.
However, whether they work in private industry or state-owned companies, all workers could suffer workplace injuries. Therefore, all employers must comply with occupational safety regulations and protect their employees.
Recommendations by the Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has encouraged employers to follow some safety measures to control hazards and prevent occupational accidents. These include:
Identify potential hazards and evaluate options to control them
Involve workers in the processes to detect hazards and create effective action plans since they understand the conditions that can pose risks
Develop plans with measures that can protect all parties involved if an emergency occurs or during non-routine activities
Evaluate existing controls to determine if they provide healthy working conditions and minimize health risks
Review new technologies to find options that can provide greater protection for workers
Furthermore, employers must provide employees with adequate training and safety equipment to reduce the risks of accidents while carrying out their operations.
Can Someone Get Workers' Compensation Benefits If They Sustain Repetitive Stress Injuries?
In Columbus, Ohio, anyone who has suffered a workplace injury, including those that are often overlooked, can file a claim and start a legal process to get workers' compensation benefits.
Although they vary from case to case, workers' compensation benefits usually include coverage for medical expenses, disability, rehabilitation, and death. They are intended to allow the affected employee to focus on their recovery without having to worry about the financial burden these injuries may cause.
Therefore, those who have suffered a workplace injury should seek help from an experienced workmans' compensation attorney to file a claim and recover the compensation they deserve.
Workers' comp lawyers can be victims' best allies, as they will do everything possible to get the best results. Here are some of the things experts can do:
Build a strong case to increase victims' chances of getting fair compensation
Represent workers in hearings
Negotiate settlements
Collect strong evidence to prove workers' claims
Help workers understand their rights
And more!
Larrimer & Larrimer Lawyers Can Help Victims of Workplace Accidents!
A workplace accident can be devastating! Besides paying expensive medical bills, victims can lose their earning capacity, suffer intense pain, face periods of stress and distress, and more.
Fortunately, with the right help, they can file a claim to recover the compensation they are entitled to, so they focus on their recovery.
At Larrimer & Larrimer, we understand how a workplace injury can negatively impact people's lives. Therefore, we are committed to helping all victims take legal action.
Our seasoned attorneys are ready to fight for workers' rights and will make sure they recover lost wages while getting the medical treatment they deserve. We can answer questions such as, "Should I open a new workers compensation claim for a recurring injury?"
Employers are required to ensure a healthy work environment to protect their employees. Whether the accident was caused by falling objects, improper control of hazardous energy, or any other negligent action, workers have the right to seek justice and obtain compensation. We are here for them!
Anyone who has suffered work injuries can call us and get a free consultation today!