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Types of Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries can occur across various industries and job roles. Understanding the different types of workplace injuries can help raise awareness and promote proactive safety measures. Common types of workplace injuries include:
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common types of workplace injuries. They can happen due to wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, cluttered walkways, inadequate lighting, or lack of proper safety signage. These incidents can result in sprains, fractures, head injuries, and back injuries.
Musculoskeletal Injuries
Jobs that involve repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or awkward postures can lead to musculoskeletal injuries. These injuries affect the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, causing conditions such as strains, sprains, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Examples include lifting heavy objects without proper equipment, repetitive typing, or working in physically demanding environments.
Struck-by or Caught-between Injuries
These injuries occur when a worker is struck by a falling object, equipment, or vehicle, or gets caught in machinery or between objects. Examples include being hit by falling tools, being caught in moving machine parts, or getting pinned between vehicles. Struck-by and caught-between injuries can cause severe fractures, internal injuries, amputations, and crush injuries.
Exposure to Hazardous Substances
Workers in certain industries may face exposure to hazardous substances, including chemicals, gases, fumes, or biological agents. Prolonged exposure or inadequate safety measures can lead to respiratory conditions, skin irritations, chemical burns, toxic poisoning, or long-term illnesses such as occupational cancers.
Electrical Injuries
Electrical injuries can occur when workers come into contact with live wires, faulty electrical equipment, or unsafe electrical systems. These incidents can result in electric shocks, burns, neurological damage, cardiac issues, or even fatalities. Electricians, construction workers, and maintenance personnel are particularly at risk.
Workplace Violence
Instances of workplace violence, including physical assault, threats, or harassment, can lead to significant physical and psychological injuries. This type of injury can occur in various work settings and industries, emphasizing the need for comprehensive workplace safety protocols and security measures.
Occupational Illnesses
Occupational illnesses develop over time due to exposure to hazardous substances, poor ergonomic conditions, or other work-related factors. These illnesses can include respiratory diseases, hearing loss, dermatitis, stress-related disorders, and conditions related to long-term exposure such as asbestosis or mesothelioma.
It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of workplace injuries, and the specific types of injuries may vary depending on the nature of the work and industry. Employers should prioritize implementing robust safety protocols, training programs, and regular risk assessments to minimize the occurrence of workplace injuries.
What to do in case of an workplace injury
Immediately after your injury you must seek medical attention. If your employer has coverage, they will refer you one of thier doctors within the insurance coverage network. If your employer doesnt have coverage you will need to seek medical attention on your own. If you are unsure or your employer has not helped you with medical treatment, you need to call lawyer immediately.
An employee or person acting on the employees behalf must report the injury to the employer within 30 days from the date of the injury. If the employee does not notify the employer within these 30 days, the employee could lose the right to obtain benefits. Make sure that you or your employer files a claim for compensation with TDI-DWC, immediately after the injury, but no later than one year of the date of the injury.
Document the incident yourself
Gather and preserve evidence related to the workplace injury. This may include taking photographs of the accident scene, noting any hazardous conditions or safety violations, and collecting contact information from witnesses who saw the incident. Proper documentation can be valuable for insurance claims or potential legal actions.
obtain witness statements
If there were witnesses to the accident, gather their statements as soon as possible. Document their observations and contact information. Witness statements can provide valuable evidence to support the injured employee's account of the incident.
If were injuries prevent you from performing your job or substantially limit some major life activity, request some time off to recover. Contact your HR personnel and make a request for FMLA leave, if eligible. Or make a request to use some of your PTO or Vacation time. Always keep a written record of your requests and approvals or denials. Use email when possible.
contact a lawyer
If the injury is severe, complex, or involves potential third-party liability, it may be beneficial for the injured employee to consult with a knowledgeable workers' compensation attorney. An attorney can provide guidance, protect their rights, and help navigate the legal process.