Helping construction workers avoid on-the-job injuries

No one understands the dangers of Charlotte construction work than the men and women who are out there wearing hardhats every day. They understand that one false move can result in serious injuries to themselves, co-workers or members of the public.

They know, too, that they are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders because of the manual lifting they must often do and as a result of their handling of heavy materials. Construction workers are also at risk of repetitive motion injuries, exposures to vibrations and variable working conditions.

Two researchers for NIOSH (the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) wrote recently that ongoing studies can help construction workers and employers minimize the risks of musculoskeletal disorders.

They noted that a recent NIOSH study show that the construction industry has the construction industry has the highest prevalence of two factors that often result in work-related injuries: frequent exertion and frequent standing. Construction ranked highest of the 22 major occupational groups for that combination of strain and standing.

The researchers stated that perhaps the simplest, most cost-effective way of preventing musculoskeletal disorders is to pay more attention to ergonomics, which can make on-site tasks easier, more comfortable and better suited to what the human body can and should do.

Workers’ compensation is another way to help workers stay safe. When an injured construction worker has needed time off and medical care that makes full recuperation possible, they are much less likely to be reinjured.

If you have been denied earned and deserved benefits, speak to an attorney experienced in workers’ comp appeals.