Getting hurt on the job is a fear for many Americans. Working in an environment that is considered “safe,” such as a school or hospital, does not exempt you from work-related injuries requiring workers’ compensation. In fact, in 2021 alone, private industry employers reported 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses. For this reason, it is essential to remain vigilant while on the job and protect yourself from harm when possible.
Workers’ Compensation Treatment
Workers’ compensation, called workers comp for short, is a particular type of insurance designed to protect injured employees from losing income as a result of a work-related injury. In order to take advantage of these benefits, the injured employee must file a claim and provide documentation, such as a physician’s report. Oftentimes, the compensation claims will pay for medical expenses related to the injury as well as a portion of lost wages due to the inability to work.
Sometimes, doctors, such as our own at South Shore Orthopedics, are tasked with providing care and reporting for a person who suffered an injury at work. For this reason, it is important for our team to know and teach the basics of workers’ compensation.
Work-Related Injuries: Who Is At Risk?
Let’s face it, no matter what your profession, there is a possibility of suffering an injury while on the job. Injuries at work can range from tripping over a loose cord and spraining your ankle to getting a limb caught in a piece of machinery.
Although work-related injuries can occur at any time to anyone, workers in the following fields tend to file more workers comp claims:
- Police officers and security workers
- Truck drivers and transportation workers
- Construction Workers
- Hospital Workers
- College or School Employees
- Warehouse and Industrial Workers
- Employees that work with chemicals
Most Common Workers’ Comp Injuries
If you fall into one of the categories above, it is important to be aware of the most common work-related injuries in order to avoid workers’ compensation treatment down the road. By understanding them, you may be able to make a larger effort to avoid the possibility of injury altogether.
The most common work-related injuries are a result of:
- Overexertion injuries
- Falling from heights
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Automobile accidents
- Walking accidents (running into objects)
- Machine entanglement
- Falling objects
- Slipping or tripping
- Reaction injuries (such as slipping or tripping without falling)
If you have suffered an injury while on the job, seek workers’ compensation treatment immediately. Don’t let an injury keep you from living your life to the fullest.
Tips for Avoiding a Work-Related Injury
Below are three tips to help keep you safe on the job and avoid a work-related injury. You can get even more advice by talking with one of our doctors today.
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Dress Appropriately
If you work around equipment, avoid wearing loose clothing that has the potential for getting snagged or caught. Also, always wear eye protection and ear protection when necessary.
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Practice Safe Driving
Before driving a company vehicle, ensure it is updated on its inspection. Check brake lights, turn signals, and tire pressure before setting off. Always make sure to wear your seatbelt.
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Avoid Shortcuts
Although you may be tempted to cut corners to get the job done faster, doing so is more likely to result in injury. Follow all instructions and procedures to the letter.
Workers Compensation Treatment at South Shore Orthopedics
If you have been hurt on the job, look no further than South Shore Orthopedics. South Shore Orthopedics specializes in workers’ compensation treatment. This means that our expert staff will help you with paperwork, filing claims, and getting you the level of workers’ compensation treatment that you deserve.
Are you interested in learning more about these services and scheduling an appointment? Contact our team by requesting an appointment today! We have plenty of resources and information to share with you.