When most people consider a career as a factory worker, they are thinking about the positives of the profession—a well-paying job with good benefits. They may not even realize the dangers that workers face of being seriously injured or killed when performing manufacturing and other assembly work. The reality is that many injured workers must take time off work to recover from their injuries after a workplace accident—if they do not become permanently disabled. However, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits to pay for their necessary medical treatments and to replace their lost wages.
Common Reasons for Agusta Factory Workers’ Accidents That Result in the Filing of a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Accidents at manufacturing plants occur for many reasons that are often beyond factory workers’ control. Some common causes of tragic injuries include:
Dangerous machinery.
Many different types of heavy machinery are used on a daily basis by factory workers in the production of goods. When they are not trained properly in use of the machines, safety procedures are not followed, or the machinery is defective or in need of repair, an accident can be the likely consequence.
Forklift accidents.
Forklift accidents are common at factories when operators are not given the special training they need to operate these machines. Failure to wear seat belts and other safety violations can result in a worker being ejected from the forklift or injured in a tipping over accident. Many co-workers are tragically injured or killed when the forklift operator fails to see them nearby and runs over them.
Slip and fall accidents.
Slip and fall accidents happen at plants for several reasons, such as spilled liquids and food, debris, and wet bathrooms. When hazards are not cleaned up quickly or warning signs posted, workers are in danger of a slip and fall accident in their work areas.
Heavy lifting and repetitive movements.
Factory workers can suffer injuries due to lifting heavy boxes, equipment, and parts, often repeatedly during their shifts. In addition, repetitive movements associated with working on an assembly line can result in similar injuries. Back, neck, shoulder, arm, and foot injuries that develop over time and cause chronic pain and limitations in movement are common and can require a worker to be off work for months or longer.
Occupational diseases.
Factory workers can be exposed to toxic chemicals, fumes, and other dangerous substances that can cause them to develop an occupational disease, such as COPD or other respiratory illnesses, or various types of cancer—often life-threatening. These illnesses may not develop until years or decades after a worker’s exposure.
Struck by and caught between objects.
Workers can suffer crushing injuries, amputations, broken bones, traumatic brain injury, and other life-altering injuries if they are struck by heavy objects or are caught between machinery.
How an Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorney Can Help If You Must File a Claim After a Factory Workplace Accident
If you are a factory worker and are injured in a workplace accident, you may be surprised to discover that your employer denies your claim for workers’ compensation benefits. Let the experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Chris Hudson & Associates, help you fight for the benefits you deserve. We will thoroughly investigate your accident, collect the evidence you need to prove your case, and negotiate a settlement for the benefits you are entitled to.
Have You Been Injured At Work?
If you’ve been injured on the job you need to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Augusta office directly at 706.863.6600 to schedule your free consultation.