The work environment can be a dangerous place. Especially for those who work in certain strenuous industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2014, construction workers, law enforcement agencies, fire fighters, health care providers, and truck drivers accounted for the most work-related injuries.
Many of these work-related injuries were in the form of Musculoskeletal Disorder or MSD, which is a deteriorating disease that has inflammatory effects that cause pain and discomfort and can inhibit normal motions. In 2014 alone, there were 325,580 musculoskeletal cases which were the direct result of heavy lifting that lead to strains and sprains in workers. Certain jobs also have an inherent and often unavoidable risks which can render employees permanently disabled.
Three industries which have had workers away from their jobs for over 100,000 days, due to injuries, are the healthcare, manufacturing, and retail industries. These three industries are all hectic this time of year, with overeating and energetic holiday shoppers creating a spike in hours worked to cater to the needs of consumersOccupational hazards associated with many of these labor based industries often result in falls, slips, and trips. Falls, slips, and trips were the reason for 316,650 days away from work, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Also, overexertion resulted in 384,260 cases.
Because of the enormity and seriousness of these workplace injuries, it is important that thorough guidelines are followed and routine facility improvements are made in these industries. Michigan is a state which prides itself on being a blue collar, working class, state which employs many people who work with their hands to support their families. As such, businesses in Michigan need to keep in mind the enormous toll dangerous work conditions could have on a worker who loses his job and can't support his family because proper guidelines and safety precautions weren't implemented for his job.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics findings should be used as an additional indicator for employers that there is still work to be done to create safer work environments for employees who are put into potentially hazardous circumstances continuously.
If you have been injured in a workplace accident, speak to an attorney at The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our experienced attorneys are highly skilled in helping victims of work place injuries receive any compensation they may be entitled to, under Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.