Office workers may not face the same physical risks as those in more hazardous industries, but that doesn’t mean they are immune to workplace accidents. From slips and falls to lifting heavy objects, there are several common office injuries that can result in workers’ compensation claims.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of these injuries. We will also explain how a skilled Winter Garden workers compensation lawyer can help you obtain the benefits you deserve.
Office Workers Are Not Safe From Workplace Accidents
When we think of workplace accidents, we often think of construction sites or industrial settings. Office workers may not face the same level of physical danger as employees in more hazardous environments, but they still encounter potential hazards.
According to a study, the top dangers in the office are:
- Tripping on cables and loose carpeting
- Looking for something while sitting on an unstable chair
- Using a chair instead of a ladder
- Poor visibility.
A skilled workers compensation attorney can help you receive the benefits you deserve. Here are the most common types of office injuries covered by the Florida workers compensation system.
1. Slips, Trips and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls may seem like minor accidents that can easily be brushed off, but they can actually lead to serious injuries in the office. One moment of lost balance or a slippery surface can result in sprained ankles, broken bones, or even head injuries.
In an office setting, these types of accidents often occur due to wet floors from spills or recently mopped areas. Cluttered walkways and loose cables are also common culprits. Even uneven flooring surfaces can pose a hazard.
Remember, no matter how innocuous they may seem at first glance, slips, trips, and falls are serious workplace injuries that warrant going to the hospital to seek medical care.
2. Lifting Heavy Items
Lifting heavy items may not seem like a risky task in an office setting, but it can actually lead to significant injuries and workers’ compensation claims. Many office workers underestimate the strain that lifting heavy objects can put on their bodies, leading to painful consequences.
When employees are required to lift heavy boxes or move furniture without proper training or equipment, it increases the risk of strains, sprains, and muscle tears. These types of injuries can be debilitating and often require medical attention and time off work for recovery.
3. Muscle Strain Due to Non-Ergonomic Furniture
Sitting at a desk for long hours may seem harmless, but it can actually lead to muscle strain and discomfort if you’re not using the right furniture. Non-ergonomic chairs and desks can put unnecessary stress on your muscles, leading to pain and even injury.
When your chair doesn’t provide proper support for your back or when your desk is too high or too low, it forces you into unnatural positions that can strain your muscles over time. This can result in conditions like lower back pain, neck stiffness, and even carpal tunnel syndrome.
It is important to seek medical attention as soon as you experience the first symptoms. Make sure to tell the doctor about your work environment, so they can establish your condition is due to your work.
4. Falling Objects Cause Office Injuries
Falling objects may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of office injuries, but they can pose a serious risk in any workplace. Whether it’s a stack of papers toppling off a shelf or an improperly secured piece of equipment falling from above, these accidents can result in significant harm.
When objects fall from heights, they can cause severe head injuries, broken bones, and even permanent disabilities. It only takes one moment for an unsuspecting employee to be struck by a falling object and suffer life-altering consequences.
5. Electrocution by Malfunctioning Equipment
Electrocution is a serious injury that can occur when office equipment malfunctions. Faulty wiring, defective outlets, and damaged cords are just some of the potential hazards that can lead to this dangerous situation.
When an employee comes into contact with live electrical currents, the consequences can be severe. Electric shocks can cause burns, cardiac arrest, and even death in extreme cases. Additionally, electrocution accidents may result in long-term complications such as nerve damage or chronic pain.
Let a Winter Garden Workers Compensation Attorney Help You!
If you’ve been injured in the workplace, you can file a workers comp claim. However, navigating the workers’ compensation process can be overwhelming.
That’s where a skilled Florida workers comp lawyer can make all the difference. We have experience handling these types of cases and understand how frustrating it can be for injured individuals trying to get their benefits.
A knowledgeable attorney will guide you through every step of the process, from filing your claim correctly to ensuring that all necessary documentation is provided. We will advocate on your behalf with insurance companies or employers who may try to deny or minimize your claim.
Remember that time is of the essence when it comes to filing a workers’ comp claim. So, contact us today at 954-448-7355 to schedule your free case review!
