Back pain isn’t an uncommon ailment, but it is one that can be hard to treat. As a result, millions of people experience long-lasting pain and discomfort following a back-related injury. Although a back injury can occur as a result of any type of accident, it’s a particularly common form of a work-related injury.
In fact, a back injury is the most common cause of ‘job-related disability’ and accounts for at least 264 million lost workdays each year. Due to this, it’s important to be aware of the risks of back injuries in the workplace, no matter what your occupation is. Additionally, you’ll want to know what your options are and how you can deal with injuries and accidents that occur at work.
Reducing the Risk of Back Injuries
Employers are required to follow health and safety regulations and provide a safe working environment for their staff. Although there are some jobs that are a breeding ground for back injuries, employers should undertake comprehensive risk analysis on a regular basis to identify potential health and safety issues.
If you’re concerned that there is a risk of injury at your workplace, be sure to raise it with your employers. You may also want to make suggestions or request equipment that will help you to work more safely. If you work in an office and are beginning to experience back discomfort, for example, your employer may be able to alter your workspace or provide an ergonomic office chair or standing desk.
Dealing with Workplace Accidents
A workplace accident is usually a one-off event that causes sudden and unforeseen injuries. If your back is damaged in this type of incident, you may experience cracked vertebrae, slipped disk, or even a damaged spinal cord, for example.
Depending on the severity of the incident, an emergency response may be required. If so, it’s likely your employers will be aware of the accident within minutes of it occurring. If not, they should be notified straight away.
After obtaining medical treatment for your injuries, you should be able to claim workers’ compensation while you’re unable to work. In addition to this, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against your employers.
Dealing with Repetitive Injuries
Although workplace accidents can cause serious harm, injuries can also occur over a longer period of time. Working with the wrong equipment or not having enough space can lead to chronic back pain, for example. Sometimes known as repetitive strain injuries or occupational injuries, these can also justify workers’ compensation claims and personal injury lawsuits, depending on the circumstances surrounding the injury.
Getting Legal Advice
If you’ve been hurt at work, getting legal advice can help you to find out what your rights are. Claiming Workers’ Compensation can be more difficult than you’d expect, which is why having a lawyer on your side can make the process easier and increase your chances of success. Similarly, making a personal injury compensation claim can be complex but working with an experienced lawyer will help you to obtain an appropriate amount of compens
