Workplace injuries - what should you do?

Workplace Injuries Workplace injuries affect many workers each year. Injuries can range from minor to severe and even fatal. The Bureau of Labour and Statistics reports that in 2007 there were 122 workplace injuries and illnesses for every 10,000 full time workers. These incidents were all non-fatal but all meant that the worker missed work for a period of time. More often than not these situations put the injured worker in difficult financial situations. Workers affected by workplace injuries can claim workers’ compensation. This will provide medical care for employees injured at the workplace.

As a trade off, the employee loses their right to sue their employer for negligence and In the United States; employers are legally required to grant these benefits to their employees who have accidents at work. Certain industries are more prone to job-related injuries than others, in a report dated October 2008; the Bureau of Labour and Statistics reports the highest incidence of non-fatal injury occurring in private industry in 2007.

The top 10 fields where the most injuries occurred were:

1. Skiing facilities,
2. Sports team and clubs,
3. Beet sugar manufacturing ,
4. Steel foundries,
5. Iron Foundries,
6. Mobile Home manufacturing,
7. Motor home manufacturing,
8. Animal slaughtering (excluding poultry),
9. Rolling mill machinery and equipment manufacturing,
10. Light truck and utility vehicle manufacturing.
On the brighter side the Bureau of Labour and Statistics also reported that the overall incidence of injuries on the job were at their lowest levels since 2002. Many employers strive to follow guidelines of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Often employers educate their employees regarding these safety precautions that should be taken in order to reduce the rate of worker injuries and the resulting workers’ compensation claim. Some employers will deny compensation to employees who do not follow these guidelines while some employers will. While many employers seek to reduce workplace hazards for their employee, some do not.

What do workers need to do in these situations to protect themselves and others from an accident at work? It is important that these be pointed out to a supervisor immediately - or ask for the advise of a trust worthy solicitors such as Irwin Mitchell who would be happy to help.