Types of Commonly Overlooked Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries can be devastating to employees and create costly issues for employers. There’s a broad range of injuries that can occur in the workplace, and employees need to be aware of their rights in obtaining compensation benefits.
But some workplace injuries may not be as visible as others. Injuries related to hearing loss, lung problems, and heart attacks present challenges in workers’ compensation claims.
Consulting with Sandy Springs Workers Compensation Attorney, Mark Thomas, helps you get the right legal protection for you and your family. Contact our office to schedule a consultation, 404-984-2653
Hearing Loss Injuries
Workplace hearing loss affects tens of thousands of employees each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 14 percent of workplace illnesses consists of hearing loss injuries.
Hearing loss can occur for many reasons. In some cases, employers may violate the guidelines put in place to protect the hearing of employees. This violation leads to total or partial loss of hearing in employees.
High levels of noise exist in many different industries such as manufacturing and construction. But hearing loss typically occurs from prolonged exposure to moderate levels of noise.
Lung Problems
Respiratory problems related to lung health can occur in the workplace. Employees who work in the presence of fibers, chemicals, and dust may experience lung problems over time.
The American Lung Association has reported some statistics to highlight the risk that many employees face.
Lung problems in the workplace are usually preventable. Respiratory issues can arise after a single exposure to harmful chemicals or as a result of prolonged exposure.
Breathing problems are the most common factors related to workplace illnesses in both severity and frequency. Common symptoms include abnormal tightness or discomfort in the chest, breathing difficulties, coughing, and altered breathing patterns.
Heart Attacks From Workplace Stress
Heart attacks can result from workplace factors. In many cases, high levels of stress can contribute to the incidence of cardiac arrest.
Employees who work long hours to meet increasing demands or face ongoing conflict at work can be at a greater risk of a heart attack.
More serious issues such as sexual harassment and assault can add to the stress that may contribute to a heart attack. Some of the most stressful work environments include hospitals, factories, construction, and warehouses.
Compensation for Overlooked Work Injuries
It can be difficult to obtain workers’ compensation for issues related to hearing loss, lung problems, and heart attacks.
These questions are hard to connect to the work environment directly, and many employers and their insurance providers will challenge an employee’s claim.
In addition to a workers’ compensation claim, employees may be able to take legal action against third parties who may have contributed to these injuries with a personal injury lawsuit.
Consulting with a skilled attorney can provide you with the ability to demonstrate that your injuries have resulted from your workplace. Working with a lawyer increases the likelihood of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
The benefits you receive will help cover any costs related to medical treatments or disability.
Many employees overlook hearing loss, lung problems, and heart attacks as potential workplace injuries. Understanding these injuries and the benefits that you’re entitled to will protect you from financial losses so that you can reclaim your quality of life.
