Cause and Effect of Work Injuries and Improper Working Positions
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that an improper working position is one of the most common causes of worker injuries. Unlike other injuries that stem from a single construction accident or incident, these types of injuries are the result of consistent unusual and awkward positioning of the body. The risk of these types of injuries in all workplaces has grown over the years, but they are especially common among construction workers. At Chanfrau & Chanfrau, we can help workers who have suffered work injuries from improper working positions in the Daytona Beach, FL area.
Types of Injuries from Improper Working Positions
One of the most common types of injuries is over-use injuries. These happen when an improper or unnatural position is used repetitively. Over time, these repetitive movements can cause injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis, as well as damage to muscles and even discs in the spine.
Poor technique can also lead to injuries. Lifting heavy objects with your back rather than your legs, for example, significantly increases your risk of a back injury. Workers who use poor technique or form are more likely to suffer a slipped or herniated disc in the future. In addition to improper form, some workers attempt to lift loads by themselves when two people are required. This can also result in serious injury to the back.
Improper working positions affect how workers move their bodies throughout the workday. It also encompasses where they physically place their bodies in relation to other workers, machinery, and equipment. If one worker does not have full visibility of another, serious accidents can take place.
Consequences of Improper Working Positions
Because these injuries usually occur over time, you may not experience any pain or discomfort for quite some time. Eventually, however, they are likely to cause a great deal of pain. In many cases, these injuries prevent you from performing some or all aspects of your job. While you can recover from some of these injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis, with medication and physical therapy, other injuries require more extensive treatment. These can keep you out of work for months or more and may also affect any future work you do. Although workers’ compensation is usually available, many workers are frustrated by missing so much work.
How to Prevent these Injuries
Ensuring you use proper form at all times when working is the best way to prevent these injuries. If you are unsure what the proper form or technique is, ask a coworker or supervisor. If he or she does not know, OSHA provides a wealth of resources to prevent worker injuries from improper positioning. When an object is too heavy for one person to lift, ensure you have another person’s help.
Contact Chanfrau & Chanfrau Today
If you have suffered an injury due to improper working positions, contact our law firm today to discuss your legal options in greater detail. Our team can assist with filing your workers’ compensation claim and can negotiate with the insurance company so you can focus on your recovery.
