Dangers of Lifting Injuries

Individuals who perform strenuous physical tasks such lifting and carrying heavy objects have a greater risk of being injured in the workplace than those in less physically-demanding careers. Manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and logistics are just a few fields that routinely require their workers to perform physical tasks. Those employed in these industries are at high risk of suffering debilitating work-related lifting injuries.

When physical tasks at work result in an injury, the injured worker can seek compensation for their medical bills and a portion of their lost wages through a Workers’ Compensation claim. Although it can be reassuring to know that this benefit exists, you should take time to practice safety techniques at work that can help you avoid injuring yourself. Adequate compensation is not guaranteed through this type of claim, nor are you guaranteed to make a full recovery from your injury.

Safe Lifting Techniques

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) created a safe lifting equation for employers to use as a template when creating their own lifting guidelines for employees. By following these guidelines, workers can reduce their chance of suffering injuries on the job. Six factors must be considered when determining whether an object is too heavy for an individual to lift and carry:

• The object’s weight and the lift’s duration
• The placement of the worker’s hands before and during the lift
• The distance the object must be carried
• Whether the worker must perform any twisting motions while carrying the object
• The number of lifts the worker must perform within a designated time frame
• The grip or coupling used during the lift

Incorrect lifting techniques and lifting objects that are too heavy can result in back injuries including slipped discs, torn muscles, and broken vertebrae. The hands, wrists, arms, neck and shoulders can also suffer injuries when an individual lifts beyond their safe limit.

When lifting heavy objects, bend your knees and use the momentum of standing up to lift the object. When an object is too heavy to lift on your own, enlist a coworker to “team lift” the object or consider using a tool like a dolly or a pushcart.

If you are injured at work, report the incident to your supervisor as soon as possible. Your employer must file an accident report in order to begin the Workers’ Compensation claim process.

Cherry Hill Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Recover Compensation for Lifting Injuries Incurred at Work

When you suffer an injury in your workplace, you are entitled to file a Workers’ Compensation claim. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you might also be entitled to file a third-party personal injury claim against another party responsible for your injury. To learn more, complete our online contact form or call DiTomaso Law at 856-414-0010 today to arrange a free consultation with a seasoned Cherry Hill Workers’ Compensation lawyer.