Joplin workers compensation attorney As a Joplin workers compensation attorney recognizes, there are many common injuries that workers at warehouses suffer and 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.

Injuries from Falling Objects in Warehouses

One of the most common characteristics of every warehouse setup is boxes and goods stacked high above the ground. In order 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.

Beware of Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Warehouse

With all of the activity 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 that 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.

Avoiding Strain From Lifting Things Improperly

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.

Equipment and Machinery Accidents are Common

Warehouse workers commandeer 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.

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.

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?

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.
If you have questions regarding warehouse injuries or any other workers compensation matters in Arkansas or Missouri, please contact the Cottrell Law Office for a free consultation. You can contact us either online or by calling us toll-free at (888) 616-6356.

Author Photo

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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