Employees in many different industries are at risk of harm. In some cases, it’s the work environment that’s dangerous in its own right. For some, it’s the tools they use or vehicles they drive that make the workplace hazardous.
We work with countless individuals each year who file workers’ compensation claims following an injury in the workplace. As such, we know that some industries are potentially more dangerous than others. If you work in any of these industries, know that you have rights, and our team will be there to help you throughout the process.
The industries with the most workers’ compensation claims include:
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Transportation and warehouse
- Logging, fishing, and agriculture
- Manufacturing
Call our firm today at (888) 740-6434 if you need help seeking compensation following a workplace injury.
Construction
The construction industry is infamous for its many associated risks. Employees often work with hazardous materials and manipulate them at high altitudes. It’s easy to imagine a 30-story building being slowly put together, but it’s harder to imagine being a worker up there, installing windows or sidewalls on the very top floor with little to no support.
This type of hazardous labor increases the risk of injury, and even death, exponentially. In just the United States alone, more than 50% of all work-related accidents are a result of falls with older workers. The construction industry has taken steps to decrease these risks by requiring hard hats, safety glasses, and reflective clothing, but it will be many more years before the rate of injury drops considerably.
Healthcare
Doctors and nurses typically provide care to others. However, they do it at the risk of their own health. Those in the healthcare industry are most at risk of injury or illness, resulting in over 580,000 cases each year. The long hours and stressful environments can take a toll on anyone, and they're exposed to various medical conditions and potential dangers, including medical equipment and property maintenance. Hospitals go to great lengths to maintain sterile environments, but unfortunately, even small injuries, such as accidental needle pricks, are all too common.
Some of the biggest dangers for healthcare workers include:
- Slip and falls
- Airborne and bloodborne illnesses
- Chemical exposure
- Radioactive exposure
Healthcare workers must meet numerous physical demands, leading to musculoskeletal injuries requiring a workers’ compensation claim.
Transportation and Warehouse
Individuals who work in warehouses or travel to deliver goods are also at risk of severe injuries. With more than 5.5 million employees in total, it’s easy to see how there are potential injuries. Truck drivers and warehouse workers, in particular, can sustain injuries that require the worker to file a claim for benefits.
Dangers in the transportation and warehousing industries include:
- Unsafe vehicle or driving conditions
- Slip and falls
- Falling objects
- Cargo handling issues
- Overexertion
- Crashes
- Repetitive stress injuries
Logging, Fishing, and Agriculture
People who work in the logging, fishing, and agriculture industries use heavy machinery and equipment that are often dangerous. Unfortunately, they cause a significant number of injuries – many people fatal – each year. Even the work conditions can be dangerous for these workers who put their bodies through excessive heat or inclement weather conditions to do their jobs.
Workers in these industries are also at risk of injury because of chemical exposure, respiratory dangers, and more.
Manufacturing
The manufacturing industry is wide-reaching, with several companies producing different products. The extensive manufacturing process includes heavy machinery, handling hazardous materials and chemicals, encountering malfunctions and common mishaps with all sorts of industry tools, as well as demanding work hours for anyone who works in this industry. As such, it’s one of the most common where workers sustain injuries and need to file a workers’ compensation claim.
Manufacturing companies often have safety and training as a top priority, but some workplaces are dangerous by nature. There’s always a potential risk of electrical problems, slips and falls, overexertion, and other injuries. Whenever something goes wrong, it’s crucial to seek benefits through a workers’ compensation claim.
At Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, we make it a top priority to represent workers who sustain severe injuries. We know that certain industries are more dangerous than others, but all workers can suffer harm for one reason or another. We’re here to stand by our clients’ sides and help them through the process.
If you need to file a claim, our workers’ compensation attorneys are here to help you. Let our team stand in your corner, build you a strong case, and seek benefits when you need them most. We care about you, and we will go above and beyond to safeguard your rights. We’re here for you and ready to seek the most favorable outcome possible.
For a free case evaluation, call our firm today at (888) 740-6434.