Waste management can be a dangerous job. Working with waste exposes workers to various hazards, from toxic chemicals and sharp objects to airborne bacteria and disease-carrying pests. In addition to waste exposure, employees in waste management frequently work around heavy equipment and machinery. Because their job requires commitment in all weather conditions, they may need to navigate slippery surfaces, such as icy walkways or sleet-coated streets. And occasionally, waste workers may encounter aggressive animals.
With so many hazards around them, waste management workers are at risk of experiencing a range of injuries, including:
- Lacerations and puncture wounds
- Broken bones
- Muscle and soft tissue sprains and strains
- Animal bites
- Diseases
- Headaches, dizziness, and cognitive problems
- Hearing loss
- Eye injuries
- Crushed limbs
- Repetitive motion injuries
Ways to Protect Waste Management Workers
Waste management jobs carry some risks. Workers can mitigate and minimize some risks by taking precautionary measures, including wearing personal protective gear, following safer protocols, and staying alert for changing conditions and situations. However, even workers who do their best to avoid getting hurt may get injured.
What Should Waste Management Workers Do After an Accident?
When a waste management worker experiences an on-the-job injury, they should immediately get medical attention and tell a supervisor about the event. Taking these actions immediately ensures that the accident or occurrence is reported and the worker can get a prompt diagnosis and treatment.
After stabilizing the condition, the worker should file a workers’ compensation claim. Waste management workers typically have the right to collect workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation is set up to cover all medical costs associated with a workplace injury. Workers’ compensation will also provide for a portion of the wages missed by an employee recovering from a workplace injury.
When Is a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Needed?
Filing a workers’ compensation claim does not require help from a lawyer. However, if a worker’s claim is denied, they can benefit from getting advice from a lawyer. A lawyer will have a different perspective on the case and be able to explain their rights. Plus, early involvement by a lawyer ensures that no steps are missed, such as meeting deadlines for submitting a workers’ compensation claim appeal.
West Chester Work Injury Lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC Protect the Rights of Waste Management Employees
Did a waste management accident leave you unable to work and with mounting medical bills? Our West Chester work injury lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC can evaluate your case. Call us at 610-594-1600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Exton, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Downingtown, West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchlan Township, Parkesburg, Chester Springs, Lancaster County, Reading, and Morgantown.