A recent study found that “material handling” was the top cause of injury in the workplace, accounting for nearly one in every three reported workplace injuries. While it’s unlikely that your job title is material handler, tens of millions of workers move packages and supplies on a daily basis. From delivery drivers to warehouse workers, moving materials from one location to another, either by hand or with the aid of a vehicle, can present numerous hazards. We take a closer look at preventing these types of injuries and how to earn compensation in the event of an injury.
Types of Material Handler Injuries
One of the most common ways a material handler is injured during the process is when they attempt to lift an object that is too heavy, resulting in a muscle strain or spine injury, or they drop the product on their foot, causing a crush injury. However, there are a number of other ways for material handlers to get injured, including:
- Dropping an unstable load.
- Tripping over equipment.
- Traffic accidents when driving a delivery truck, or forklift accidents when moving materials in a warehouse.
- Burns or chemical injuries from transporting potentially harmful substances.
- Slipping on wet spots or unsecured flooring.
- Falling on the same level or down stairs when moving materials.
- Repetitive stress injuries from regularly moving heavy objects.
Despite all those types of injuries, you can take a number of steps to prevent against material handling injuries. Just look at the common causes, and be aware of how to prevent against that type of injury. Use tandem lifts for heavy object, and secure all loads before trying to move them. Keep the warehouse floor clean and identify potential hazards before moving the object. Wear gloves and eye protection when moving potentially dangerous materials, and use safe practices when driving a delivery truck or forklift. Simply being cognizant of the risks and taking danger-mitigation actions can go a long way in preventing material handler injuries.
Injured Material Handlers – Your Options
Whether you broke your ankle trying to move an office chair down stairs or you slipped on some oil while moving boxes in the warehouse, remember that you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Material transportation injuries can range from mild to life-altering, so don’t just sit back and hope that you’ll get a good payday.
The best way to maximize your award amount is to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer like Dean Margolis. He’s handled numerous cases for material and packaging handlers, and he can do the same for you. Don’t trust that your company has your best interests at heart, because their interests differ from yours. Trust your claim to an experienced legal team and know that they are doing everything in their power to get you the compensation you deserve.
If you’re interested in sitting down with Dean and his team and reviewing your injury your claim, free of charge, contact his office today at (952) 230-2700.
