Healthcare workers provide important health services, from emergency medical care to dental cleanings.
Healthcare and social assistance workers get injured more than any other sector, according to data from OSHA. In 2017 the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 582,800 injury and illness cases among healthcare and social assistance workers. That’s over 150,000 more cases than manufacturing, which is second to healthcare for injury and illness cases.
Healthcare Hazards
There are a surprising number of workplace dangers for employees who are dedicated to helping others get and stay healthy. Here are several of the hazards healthcare workers face:
- Bloodborne pathogens
- Potential for chemical and drug exposure
- Respiratory hazards
- X-ray hazards
- Biological hazards
- Laboratory hazards
- Workplace violence
- Ergonomic hazards
That’s just a sampling. And when a healthcare worker is injured on the job, it creates a ripple effect. Workers’ compensation, temporary staffing/backfilling/overtime when an injured employee misses work, turnover costs related to injured employees quitting, and decreased morale due to physical and emotional fatigue are just a few of the consequences of healthcare worker injuries.
Common Causes of Healthcare Worker Injuries
Some of the most common causes of healthcare worker injuries are:
- Overexertion and bodily reaction
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Contact with objects
- Violence
- Exposure to substances
Healthcare workers face many risks while working to keep their patients safe. It’s a rewarding field, but it’s important for hospitals and medical offices to provide protective equipment and ensure work practices are as safe as possible.
If you or a loved one has been injured at work, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
