Overexertion and falls remain leading workplace injuries

In many workplaces, incentives exist for those who work harder and faster. We often see this in construction, retail, restaurants and manufacturing. The risks of working too fast can be overlooked in these environments.

According to Liberty Mutual Holding Co. Inc.’s 2020 workplace safety index, the three costliest workplace injuries include overexertion, falls and being hit by an object. Moreover, overexertion and same-level falls are the two leading causes of workplace injuries.

This index was based on 2017 data of workplace injury and illness that resulted in more than five days out of work. Here’s the breakdown.

Overexertion from handling objects

Overexertion from handling objects accounted for nearly a quarter of workplace injuries and costs employers nearly $14 billion. The index found that overexertion was most common in:

• Healthcare and social assistance — 30.1%
• Manufacturing — 20.3%
• Professional services — 18.4%
• Retail — 28.5%
• Transportation and warehousing — 22.7%
• Wholesale — 28.2%

Overexertion can result from pushing, pulling, lifting, carrying or holding objects. It can also involve repetitive motions and repeated bending or twisting. Overexertion usually results in muscle strains, sprains and musculoskeletal injuries involving the muscles, tendons and ligaments.

Same-level falls

Same-level falls accounted for 18 percent of workplace injuries and costs employers nearly $11 billion. The index found that same-level falls were common in:

• Construction — 24.1%
• Hospitality and leisure — 30.6%

Same-level falls often occur due to slippery surfaces, uneven surfaces and debris in walking areas. A fall can lead to a traumatic brain injury, bone fractures, soft tissue injuries, and cuts, bruises, and contusions.

Getting struck by objects or equipment

“Struck by incidents” accounted for 10 percent of workplace injuries and costs employers $6.12 billion. These types of injuries often occur in manufacturing, construction, transportation and warehousing. Incidents may include being struck by falling objects, forklifts, pallet jacks, inventory, large equipment and building materials.

“Struck by incidents” can result in broken bones, head injuries, spinal injuries, crushed limbs, amputations, paralysis and death.

How can I get workers’ compensation benefits after a workplace injury?

If you sustained an injury on the job, you could be faced with costly medical bills while you’re unable to attend work and collect a paycheck. Fortunately, you may be entitled to compensation through a workers’ compensation claim.

The process isn’t easy, however. That’s why it’s critical that you speak to an experienced New York attorney who can help you through this complex process. Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP Attorneys At Law has built a reputation for successfully helping injured workers in NYC in throughout the state get the compensation they need.

To get started on your claim, contact us online.