As a workers’ compensation attorney recognizes, there are many common warehouse injuries that workers suffer which can lead to workers’ compensation claims.
The dangers faced by workers in fulfillment centers like Amazon and Walmart have been in the news recently and, if you fall into that category, you may want to be aware of some of the most common dangers in order to avoid them.
If you have suffered any of these common warehouse injuries, contact our workers’ compensation attorneys at Cottrell Law Office.
1. Injuries from Falling Objects
One of the most common characteristics of every warehouse setup is boxes and goods stacked high above the ground. To conserve space, this storage method is quite useful and typically can be done safely.
However, accidents are not uncommon and humans do make mistakes in how things are stacked. If objects are not stacked properly, that will increase the danger of being injured from a falling object.
In many cases, falling objects do not actually injure anyone, but at times a worker may be hit by a falling object. When the object strikes your head, the injury could be severe.
2. Slips, Trips, and Fall Accidents
With all of the activities warehouse workers must do, the risk of slipping, tripping, and falling while working in the warehouse is quite high.
What exacerbates this situation is the fact that warehouses tend to have an abundance of objects on the ground or jutting out into the walkway which increases the risk of tripping or slipping.
The best way to avoid this potential danger is to stay alert and look where you are going. Also, workers need to be sure to keep work areas clean and clear of obstacles.
3. Improper Lifting
A warehouse’s purpose is not just to store items, but to take things out of them when needed. Although warehouse workers use machinery to move the heaviest objects, they also do a lot of lifting themselves which results in a couple risks.
- Each lift has the potential to strain necks, shoulders, backs, or other parts of the body.
- Constant physical activity is tiring, which increases the chance of an accident.
4. Equipment and Machinery Accidents
Warehouse workers command equipment like forklifts to assist with heavy lifting.
However, this type of warehouse machinery doesn’t come without risks. Any tool or machinery with moving parts presents a possibility for injury, especially to extremities like hands or feet.
The equipment should be well-maintained and checked on a regular basis to make sure it’s in good working condition. Make sure that you’ve received the proper training before using the equipment.
5. Injuries and Illnesses from Exposure to Hazardous Materials
For those individuals who work at warehouses that store hazardous chemicals, the dangers of exposure can be serious. However, any warehouse employee could be at risk of exposure to asbestos, gas leaks, or other hazardous materials while at work.
Following all safety protocols and remaining vigilant while at work are the best ways to avoid these hazards and occupational diseases.
What is the Deadline for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Missouri?
You may be wondering when you should hire a workers compensation lawyer. If there are any complex issues in your case, the wisest decision is to consult with a Joplin workers compensation attorney.
For instance, if your employer denies your claim or you do not receive your benefits as you should, then an attorney should get involved. The vast majority of employees who are injured at work do not appeal the denial of their claim.
Consulting a Joplin workers compensation attorney is a wise thing to do. But, how long do you have to file your claim?
Related Article: Missouri Statute of Limitations For Workers’ Compensation Claims
Be Sure to Report Your Injury Within the Time Required
One mistake you can make when it comes to Worker’s Comp claims is confusing the need to report your injury with actually filing a worker’s comp claim.
If you fail to report your injury or delay in reporting your injury, you may be abandoning your claim. Under Missouri workers’ compensation law, you are required to report your on-the-job injury within 30 days of its occurrence.
Your notice should be in writing and should include the date, time and place of your injury. The notice typically needs to be delivered to your supervisor or another appropriate officer of your employer. Your notice should also describe the nature and severity of the injury.
Keep in mind that failure to report your work-related injury within that 30-day period could result in losing your rights to workers’ compensation benefits.
Contact Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Cottrell Law Office
If you have questions regarding warehouse injuries or any other worker’s compensation matters in Arkansas or Missouri, please contact the Cottrell Law Office for a free consultation. Contact us to get started on your case today!
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Arkansas Office:
Wesley Cottrell
Wes Cottrell earned his B.A. from Pittsburg State University in 1981 and his J.D. from the Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, Kansas in 1985. He was admitted to practice law in Kansas in 1986, in Missouri in 1987, in Arkansas in 1989, and Oklahoma in 1993. He is licensed to practice law in the United States District Court for the District of Kansas, eastern Arkansas, western Arkansas, and western Missouri. He was Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Crawford County, Kansas from 1987-1989.
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