Pursuing a Personal Injury Lawsuit for an Office-Related Workplace Injury in Pennsylvania
When many people think about workplace injuries, they may assume that these incidents always involve heavy machinery, construction workers, and dangerous jobs. However, there are plenty of individuals who become injured in relatively safe and innocuous workplaces, such as an office. According to official data from the US Department of Labor Statistics, as many as 3 million people become injured each year in the private sector.
If you have suffered a workplace-related injury, it really doesn’t matter where it happened or what type of job you have. Although many employers and labor organizations might not take you seriously when you inform them of your office-related injury, help is available. Enlist the assistance of a qualified, experienced workers compensation attorney, and you can gain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. A workers compensation attorney recognizes that these injuries can be life-altering.
Spinal Issues Are Common Due to the Lack of Ergonomic Workspaces in Offices
The OSHA clearly highlights the importance of ergonomic workstations in the office. If your employer fails to provide you with desks, chairs, and computer equipment that fits your unique physical proportions, you may have the opportunity to receive compensation for any spinal or nerve issues that develop as a result. The OSHA has stated that musculoskeletal disorders account for more than $15 billion in workers’ compensation costs.
You and your attorney can find a medical specialist who will provide a written statement that supports your claim. For example, a spinal expert may argue that your musculoskeletal disorder is the result of repetitive movements, lack of breaks, and awkward sitting positions.
Falls
The CDC has stated that the most common type of office-related injury is a fall. According to the official statistics, office workers are 2-3 times more likely to suffer from a fall compared to other workers. There are a number of possible factors that might contribute to a fall in the office:
- Loose Wires and Cords: Offices are filled with printers, computers, and other electrical equipment. If cords are not laid out in a neat, safe manner, they represent a major safety risk for office workers. If you have suffered a fall because wires in your office space were haphazardly scattered across hallways, you can pursue a workers compensation claim.
- Wet Floors: Concrete, tile, or wooden floors can all become slippery when wet. Whether you’re walking to the restroom or just trying to leave the office after a hard day’s work, wet floors represent a major safety hazard. Your employer has a duty of care to clean, dry, and address spills as soon as they become aware of them.
Tasks that You’re Not Trained For
Office employees are often asked to complete tasks that aren’t really in their job description. For example, your employer may ask you to move heavy boxes or replace a lightbulb. These tasks may involve standing on a chair or bending your back, and they can cause serious injuries. If you’ve been asked to do something that isn’t safe, you may be able to hold your employer liable for your injuries.
Getting Legal Help
If you have suffered an office-related injury, reach out to the Northeastern Pennsylvania personal injury attorneys at the Needle Law Firm today. We can prove that your employer’s negligence contributed directly to your injuries.
Resource:
bls.gov/news.release/osh.nr0.htm
osha.gov/ergonomics
