Legal Representation In Minnesota And Wisconsin

Factory Work And Food Processing Jobs Carry High Risk For Injury

On Behalf of | Aug 16, 2018 | Workers' Comp |

Factory work, manufacturing jobs, meatpacking occupations and similar industrial professions carry a high risk of injury for workers. Injuries vary widely in industrial settings. Workers may experience hearing loss due to excessive noise in the workplace – in fact, hearing loss is one of the most common forms of occupational injury in the United States. Other hazards may include slippery floors, dangerous heavy machinery, and overexertion – leading to repetitive stress injuries.

Many commentators have called meatpacking one of the most dangerous jobs in America. Meat and poultry workers suffer injuries two-and-a-half times higher than the national average, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. When time away from work due to injury is factored in, food processing workers suffer these more severe injuries three times above the national average.

Severe Injuries Can Complicate Workers’ Comp Claims Severe injuries in factories, food processing plants and similar factory settings may involve amputation or lifelong disabling conditions. Workers who suffer injury on the job may be entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Unfortunately, as the severity of the injuries increase, navigating the workers’ compensation system can become more complicated. For instance, the workers’ compensation insurance provider will require injured workers to submit to an independent medical examination. The insurance company pays the doctor for these exams in the hopes of discontinuing, or reducing benefits. After any work-related injury, or after contracting a work-related illness, is it important to seek guidance in obtaining benefits. The insurance companies look for ways to minimize their costs, at the expense of injured workers.