Workplace Injuries and Illnesses Come at High Costs
Studies reveal the high costs of workplace injuries and illnesses. The numbers vary by region, with the health care industry ranking as one of the most dangerous for workers.
December 18, 2012
North Carolina residents suffering from workplace injury or occupational illness know how difficult the experience is. However, they may be surprised to learn the high cost of workplace injuries, as well as which industry is now considered one of the most dangerous.The manufacturing industry is traditionally thought of as inherently dangerous. Police and firefighters are also expected to experience potentially dangerous work situations.
According to The Atlantic, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics analyzes the number of illnesses and injuries by industry. According to the study, "nursing and residential care facilities" reported 14.7 injuries per 100 full-time workers in state government facilities. In contrast, the petroleum refineries only reported 0.7 injuries per 100 workers.
Kaiser Health News reports that nursing aides win the unfortunate prize for the second highest rate of work injuries and illnesses.
The New York Times wrote about a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that suggests that employer-provided paid sick leave is a potentially significant way to reduce workplace injuries as well as costs. Employer location also plays a role in workplace injuries, which are found to vary considerably by geographic region, says the BLS.
For example, Maine reports the highest incidence rate of workplace injuries at 5.6 injuries per 100 full-time workers. Washington, D.C., reports an incidence rate of 1.9, making it the safest.
The nation pays a high price for workplace injuries and illnesses. The U.S. News and World Report cited a recent study out of the University of California, Davis, for the estimate that around $250 billion per year is spent nationally on "job-related injuries and illnesses." These costs are expected to increase, considering the many hours each week most people spend at work, says the study's author J. Paul Leigh.
Employees of nursing homes or residential care facilities are in danger of slipping and falling while trying to lift heavy patients or equipment. Additionally, the health care industry presents a number of unique and potentially hazardous situations.
For instance, employees could be exposed to dangerous bacteria or pathogens while caring for patients, who also may carry contagious diseases, which can be spread to employees.
Due to the large number of medications being administered and other substances present in the medical environment, dangerous chemicals are also regularly present. Finally, patient behavior can turn violent, increasing the possibility of harm to employees. All of these factors contribute to the high potential of a workplace injury or illness in the institutional health care workplace.
Home health care workers also face challenges and hazards. They normally work in isolation inside private residences without access to supervisory staff or other colleagues. Workplace injuries or illnesses can be severe and cause substantial pain and suffering. They can also place a heavy burden on families and loved ones as well as cause financial distress.
An individual suffering from a workplace injury can benefit from an experienced workers' compensation attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can provide guidance and assist with obtaining any available compensation.
Article provided by Jay Gervasi, P.A.
Visit us at www.lawyerforinjuredworkers.com