Getting injured at work can happen to anyone, no matter how safe the workplace seems. Each day, workers face risks that could lead to accidents and injuries. These risks exist whether someone works in a factory, an office, or on a construction site. Fortunately, when you’re hurt at work, workers’ comp helps by providing financial and medical support.
This article will explain common workplace injuries covered by workers’ compensation. We will also look at why getting professional help is important to ensure your claim is handled properly.
Common Injuries Covered by Workers’ Comp
When people think about workers’ compensation, they often picture serious injuries. However, workers’ compensation benefits cover many types of injuries. It ranges from small to severe, as long as they happen at work.
Here are some of the most common workplace injuries that workers’ compensation may cover.
1. Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls cause many workplace injuries. These accidents can happen in almost any type of job.
For example, the following can lead to accidents:
- Wet floors in stores
- Messy office spaces
- Uneven surfaces at construction sites
Injuries from these can include sprains, broken bones, head injuries, and back problems. Workers’ compensation usually covers medical costs and lost wages. Sometimes, long-term disability is also covered, if needed.
2. Strains and Sprains
Strains and sprains are often seen in jobs that involve repeated movements or heavy lifting. For instance:
- A warehouse worker might injure their back while lifting boxes.
- An office worker might get tendinitis from typing for long hours.
These injuries are usually covered by workers’ compensation. This is because employers must make sure workplaces are safe and comfortable for employees.
3. Cuts and Lacerations
Cuts and lacerations are common in jobs like construction and manufacturing. These injuries can happen when workers use sharp tools, deal with broken machinery, or follow unsafe procedures.
Workers’ compensation tends to cover medical care for these injuries, such as the following:
- Stitches
- Cleaning the wound
- Treating infections
4. Repetitive Stress Injuries
Repetitive stress injuries happen when the same movements or overuse of certain muscles or joints cause damage. Common examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis. These injuries often affect workers who do repeated tasks like typing, assembling products, or scanning items.
Workers’ compensation usually covers treatments like physical therapy and medication. Other forms of care may also be covered to help with repetitive stress injuries.
5. Machinery-Related Injuries
Machinery-related injuries can be severe and life-changing. Workers in industrial jobs often handle heavy machines. This can lead to serious accidents like crush injuries, amputations, or burns. These incidents can happen suddenly, making safety precautions essential.
Workers’ compensation provides injured workers with medical care, such as surgeries or treatments. Financial assistance is also given to help them recover and manage during the time they cannot work.
6. Exposure to Harmful Substances
Exposure to harmful substances can pose serious risks to workers. Those in dangerous jobs might come into contact with chemicals, gases, or toxic fumes. This can lead to breathing problems, burns on the skin, or even long-term illnesses like cancer. These exposures often happen without warning. This makes proper safety gear and training very important.
Workers’ compensation helps by covering medical treatment. It also involves providing support if these exposures cause lasting health issues.
7. Vehicle-Related Accidents
Workers who drive as part of their jobs are at risk of accidents. This involves those who use delivery trucks, forklifts, or company cars. These accidents can cause injuries such as broken bones, whiplash, or head injuries. Workers’ compensation generally covers these injuries if the accident happens while doing work duties.
8. Falling Objects
Falling objects are a common risk in warehouses, construction sites, or retail spaces where items are stored on high shelves. Injuries caused by falling objects might include concussions, fractures, or lacerations. Workers’ compensation can help you recover by covering treatment and recovery costs.
9. Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is a common work-related injury that can be hard to notice until the damage is serious. Jobs in construction, manufacturing, or entertainment often expose workers to loud noises for long periods. Over time, this constant noise can permanently harm hearing if proper ear protection is not used.
Workers’ compensation can help by paying for hearing damage caused by the job. For example, a worker might receive hearing aids and therapy.
10. Mental Health Conditions
While most workers’ comp claims are for physical injuries, mental health issues can also be covered in some cases. Stress, anxiety, or trauma caused by bullying, harassment, or seeing tragic events at work are some examples. They might qualify for help under certain state laws.
These issues can deeply affect a person’s well-being and ability to work. Getting support through workers’ compensation can make it easier for employees to recover. It also helps them return to their job safely and confidently.
Workers’ Comp in Grand Junction, CO
When you’re hurt at work, workers’ comp is something you are entitled to receive. Getting hurt at work can be stressful, and dealing with workers’ compensation can feel confusing. It is important to know which injuries are covered when it comes to occupational health services. Having the right help can make it much easier to get the benefits you need.
WorkPartners Occupational Health is an excellent occupational health clinic. We specialize in supporting injured workers through every step of their recovery. Our expert staff understands the complexities of workers’ comp claims. We are here to help you get the treatment and resources you need. Call us at (970) 241-5585 or request a consultation through our website to start your recovery the right way.
The best workers’ comp doctors near you look forward to serving you!
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