If you’ve been injured at work, you may be wondering if you qualify for workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation is a system in place to help employees who are injured on the job. The following are five injuries that typically qualify for workers’ compensation.
Musculoskeletal Injuries
Musculoskeletal injuries can range from minor strains and sprains to more severe muscle tears and ruptures. These types of injuries are generally caused by overexertion, repetitive motions, or heavy lifting. Musculoskeletal injuries typically qualify for workers’ compensation coverage if they occurred while performing job-related duties.
Some examples of jobs that might result in musculoskeletal injuries include machine operators, construction workers, truck drivers, laborers, and healthcare professionals. Those in manual labor positions are particularly prone to musculoskeletal injuries because they may be required to lift heavy items or perform repetitive motions for long periods of time. Additionally, those who work in physically demanding and/or hazardous jobs may be more likely to suffer from musculoskeletal injuries.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Repetitive stress injuries, also known as cumulative trauma disorders, are caused by repetitive motion or sustained force over time. These types of injuries can occur in any job that requires a high degree of repetition, such as typing or data entry. The most common types of repetitive stress injuries are carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. They can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected area. Repetitive stress injuries typically qualify for workers’ compensation coverage if they occurred while performing job-related duties.
You may not consider many jobs to qualify for this injury, but among the many that may lead to repetitive stress injuries, these include computer programmers, office workers, factory workers, and retail employees. Those who perform data entry or typing for extended periods of time are especially at risk of developing these types of injuries due to the repetition of motions. Additionally, those who work in physically demanding and/or hazardous jobs may be more likely to suffer from repetitive stress injuries.
Occupational Diseases
Occupational diseases are illnesses that arise out of or in the course of employment. These types of ailments can include respiratory issues, hearing loss, and skin irritation. Occupational diseases typically qualify for workers’ compensation coverage if they can be linked to the job duties or working environment of the employee.
Examples of jobs that may lead to occupational diseases include those in healthcare settings, manufacturing plants, construction sites, and agriculture. Those who work with hazardous chemicals, in confined spaces, or are exposed to toxic fumes and dust may be particularly at risk of developing occupational diseases. It is important for employers to take steps to limit the risk of occupational illness by providing appropriate safety gear and training.
Slip and Fall Injuries
Slip and fall injuries occur when an employee slips, trips, or falls on a hazardous surface while performing job-related duties. These types of injuries can range from minor bruises to more serious fractures. Slip and fall injuries typically qualify for workers’ compensation coverage if they are directly related to the conditions of the work environment.
You need to be careful of any job out there that could pose a risk of slipping and falling. Some jobs that may lead to slip and fall injuries include those in the hospitality industry, retail stores, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. Those who work in these settings are particularly at risk of slipping or tripping on uneven surfaces, debris, wet floors, or other hazardous conditions. Additionally, employers should take steps to ensure a safe working environment by providing adequate lighting and ensuring floors and surfaces are not slippery.
Psychological Injuries
Psychological injuries can result from a single traumatic event or cumulative stress over time. These types of injuries can include post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. Psychological injuries typically qualify for workers’ compensation coverage if they occurred while performing job-related duties.
Psychological injuries can stem from virtually any occupation, but some of the more common ones that may lead to the most psychological injuries include those in the military, law enforcement, healthcare, and social work. Those who are exposed to traumatic or stressful situations on a regular basis are particularly at risk of developing psychological injuries. Additionally, employers should take steps to ensure a safe working environment by providing employees with mental health resources and support. Though it may not seem like it qualifies, psychological damages can be contested with certified work-related accident lawyers.
If you have been injured on the job, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to determine if you qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Keep in mind that each state has its own laws regarding workers’ compensation, so be sure to consult with a local attorney for assistance.
This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write about business, finance, and family issues. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find Dixie on Facebook.
