The kinds of injuries you might be prone to at work will depend on the kind of work you do, but there are some common ones, of which you might not even be aware. For example, many people don’t think of themselves as being prone to workplace injuries if they have a desk job, but the fact is that sitting at a computer all day can result in a variety of specific injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Here are some of the most common workplace injuries that might affect you, regardless of what kind of job you have:
Slips, trips, and falls
If you slip, trip, or fall on your employer’s property and suffer significant injuries as a result, your employer will likely be responsible for paying any medical costs associated with those injuries. Sidewalks that are icy, damaged or unrepaired are all examples of hazards with the potential to cause unwary employees harm. Because it is the employer’s responsibility to maintain the safety standards of their property, they are responsible for any injury suffered by someone working for them on their property.
Muscle Strains and Repetitive Strain Injuries
Carpal tunnel syndrome falls under this category. It generally results from holding your arms and hands in the same position (i.e. at a keyboard) and performing the same movements (such as typing or controlling a mouse) over and over.
But carpal tunnel syndrome is hardly the only injury to fall into this category. Any job where you’re performing the same motions over and over again has the potential to result in muscle strain and/or tendonitis (when the tendon becomes inflamed) in any part of the body that is repeatedly performing the same motions.
Inhaling Toxic Fumes
This is another one people tend to associate with something like factory work, but in fact many people have sued their employers for hazardous working conditions if the building they were working in contains something like asbestos.
Employers can also be held responsible for covering medical costs associated with other construction issues, such as mold, if they start making people sick or causing them to get injured.
Exposure to Loud Noises
Not only is it distracting, but it can also cause serious damage, including a certain amount of hearing loss. Workers who work in noisy industries (construction, factories, train stations, etc.) are most likely to suffer injuries from repeated and/or extended exposure to loud noises.
Being Hit by Falling Objects
This is another one that applies to as many office workers as factory or construction workers. Objects falling off shelves or storage units can cause serious injuries to office workers, especially if they don’t see it coming.
If you’ve been injured at work, call a competent personal injury attorney right away. Even if your employer is eager to pay up and put the matter behind them, don’t accept anything without first talking to a lawyer. They know all your rights and can protect you.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or some other type of accident, work related or not, you need the advice of an experienced personal injury lawyer.
CONTACT the Lieser Law Firm today for your FREE case evaluation.