Did you know that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that “…lifting, placing, carrying, holding and lowering [materials] are the principal cause of compensable work injuries“? Did you know that there are no federal regulations for governing workplace lifting requirements? This means that individual employers must set their own guidelines and rules to protect their workers from lifting injuries.
What Are Common Workplace Lifting Injuries?
Work-related lifting injuries can be caused by sudden trauma, or by activities that put stress on muscles over an extended period of time. Most lifting accidents affect the lower back.
These injuries include:
- Slipped/herniated disks
- Fractured vertebrae
- Back strains and sprains
Other common lifting injuries can affect the arms, wrist, and hands, as well as the neck and shoulders.
What Is The “Lifting Equation”?
In order for employers to set up guidelines regarding lifting in the workplace, the National Institute for Occupational Safety (NIOSH) created what they call the “lifting equation.”
This equation uses 6 criteria to determine safe lifting limits:
- Weight of the object and duration of the lift
- Measuring the placement of the worker’s hands before and during the lift
- Distance traveled during the lift
- Twisting motions used by the worker
- Number of lifts performed by the worker in a certain amount of time
- Type of gripping used during the lift
How To Receive Workers’ Compensation for Lifting Injuries
If you’ve been involved in a workplace lifting accident, you should receive proper medical treatment as soon as possible and notify your employer in writing right away. The longer you wait, the harder it will be for you to receive your compensation.
If your workers’ comp claim is successful, your medical bills could be completely covered, including:
- Chiropractic treatment
- Physical therapy
- And out-of-pocket expenses (crutches, wheelchair, etc.)
Additionally, you could receive compensation for:
- Lost wages
- Transportation costs
- And more
Contact a Massachusetts Workers’ Comp Attorney
The workers’ comp process can be complex, especially if you’ve been disabled by the injury. Your employer and their insurance company will work to make sure you get as little compensation as possible.
Our lawyers at Powers & Caccavale, on the other hand, are determined to get you the most compensation possible. We know the effects a serious lifting accident can have on you and your family.
To contact the team at Powers & Caccavale, fill out our free case evaluation or call us at (617) 379-0016.