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There are countless hazards workers encounter on the job. Construction workers face risks associated with heavy machinery and falls from heights; office workers can struggle with repetitive stress injuries and back pain; industrial workers may encounter crushing injuries or explosions. But no matter what job you work in, studies suggest that putting in too many hours can be bad for your health. The risks of overworking A global study by the World Health Organization linked working more than 55 hours a week to increases in heart disease and stroke. In fact, workers in this group can be at a 17 percent increase of developing fatal heart disease and 35 percent more likely to have a stroke. These increases stem from findings that overworking can result in: Excessive stress hormone releases Structural lesions Cardiovascular system dysregulation Substance abuse Physical inactivity Unhealthy eating habits Tobacco use These can all cause physical problems for workers, putting them at a higher risk of suffering a fatal condition. Protecting yourself on the job It may seem easy to say that individuals should just refrain from working more than 55 hours a week to minimize their risk for these conditions; however, this may simply not be an option for people with multiple jobs or demanding occupations. Thus, if you cannot reduce your working hours, you might consider other ways to improve your health. Visit the doctor regularly; quit or cut back on harmful habits like smoking; practice stress-relieving activities like meditation and yoga. It can also be crucial to call attention to any avoidably stressful or dangerous conditions in the workplace. Earning a living should not come at the expense of a person’s health. However, every day, workers struggle with unsafe work environments and employment expectations that can be harmful. Anyone experiencing illnesses or injuries should do their best improve their overall health, but should an accident arise, they should be sure contact legal counsel for assistance in obtaining coverage for their injuries.

Workers can suffer numerous injuries on the job, including falls from heights, being crushed by a powerful machine and severe burns after an explosion. Indeed, these situations can result in devastating injuries. However, an injury-causing event need not be blatantly catastrophic  to affect workers. In fact, even small movements can take a toll on a person’s health when they are repetitive. Types of repetitive stress injuries Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs,) also known as overuse injuries, are injuries that occur when someone makes the same movement over and over, stressing the muscles, nerves and tendons. Over time, these actions can cause increasingly bad and painful damage to the area. Some examples of common work-related activities that can lead to an RSI include: Swiping items on a conveyer belt Typing on a keyboard Using a mouse Assembly line work Holding your arms above your head for extended periods Sitting in unnatural positions Using vibrating equipment These actions and positions can put stress on a person’s body, even though it may not seem like it at first. But, over time, a person can start experiencing aches and pains that gradually worsen, resulting in RSIs like carpal tunnel syndrome and bursitis. Treating and tracking your symptoms If you think you have an RSI, it can be crucial to keep track of your symptoms and how you treat them. This information can be valuable when you talk to your doctor and apply for workers’ compensation benefits if they prevent you from working. For instance, make a note of when you start feeling symptoms of an RSI, including tingling, numbness and pain. Include details of how bad the symptoms are and how long they last. Also, pay attention to any treatments that seem to help, whether that includes taking an aspirin, changing positions or wearing a splint. These records can make it easier to assess which treatments are effective and whether more aggressive treatment is necessary. Most importantly, in relation to a potential worker’s compensation claim, the injured work should inquire with their doctor whether or not their condition is related, at least in part, to their employment.  Should a physician believe there is a causal relationship and the injured worker require work accommodations or miss time from work, the injured worker should obtain a disability slip indicating same. Taking RSIs seriously People tend to downplay RSIs and assume they have no option but to live with them. However, when you take an RSI as seriously as other work-related injuries, it can be easier to get the care and financial support you need. Similar to identifying an RSI, having a claim considered compensable may be complicated as well.  It is important that should a person suspect they have an RSI resulting from their employment, they should seek experienced representation.to ensure the proper steps are taken to obtain coverage of their injury.

Did you know that every year more than 2.8 million people seek emergency treatment for a traumatic brain injury, according to the Brain Injury Association of America? That number is more than a statistic. It represents hundreds of thousands of families who must cope with the effects of a brain injury for many years to come. Long-term effects of a brain injury Every brain injury has the potential to cause painful, disruptive symptoms. When people suffer a more severe brain injury in an accident, they can spend the rest of their lives coping with symptoms like: Seizures Loss of coordination Memory loss Sleep problems Declines in executive functions Personality changes Difficulty concentrating Changes in senses like taste and smell Emotional anguish, including depression and anxiety Some of these symptoms can be treated with medication, surgery or rehabilitation. Some may go away with time, while others may persist indefinitely. Thus, treating a severe brain injury with long-term effects can be a long, frustrating process. Preventing brain injuries on the job Brain injuries can change a person’s life in the blink of an eye. In the span of a single incident, a person can become unable to work or care for themselves. Thus, preventing brain injuries on the job is vital. There are several ways to avoid brain injuries to workers: Have safety protocols in place and routinely reviewed Raise awareness of the risks of brain injuries among workers Adequately train workers for hazardous conditions Provide protective gear to employees Workers should also comply with safety regulations, wear helmets and other gear when necessary and stay alert on the job. These measures can protect workers and prevent brain injuries from threatening their health and livelihood. However, even when the above is provided and followed, accidents still occur.  Under Maryland law, an employer need not act negligently to be responsible for a work place accident.  Should a worker experience a head or brain injury, it is important they contact an experienced attorney to ensure the injured worker receives the medical care and benefits needed to recover from their injury.

All construction workers know that they work in a particularly risky field. In their training and from their experience on the job, they often know what hazards and factors contribute to the chance of a worksite accident. However, a new study suggests that there is another factor workers should be aware of – the time during their shift that they face the highest risk of injury. When are workers more likely to suffer injuries? A new study, according to Occupational Health & Safety, is one of the first to examine the times when injured workers reported they suffered an injury or accident on the job. Oregon State University (OSU) conducted the study and found that there could be a pattern. The researchers reviewed more than 12,000 claims from between 2007 and 2013 and determined that construction workers were more likely to suffer injuries: Within the first four hours of work Especially during the fourth hour of work The rate of work injuries generally decreased after the fourth hour ended. Why is the risk higher at these times? It is difficult to say why the first four hours of work carry such a high risk for construction workers. The study does not elaborate on the reasons, and there are several risk factors that workers face on a project site. However, this portion of a worker’s shift could hold a higher risk of injury for a few reasons, including: Workers’ bodies and muscles are still adjusting as they begin their shift Workers might suffer fatigue, especially in the fourth hour of work before a meal period There are several reasons why injuries might be more likely to occur in the first half of one’s shift. Regardless of these reasons, workers must consider this new information carefully. And why is this information important? EHS Daily Advisor indicates that awareness and education are two of the first steps to preventing workplace injuries. That is the primary reason that this information is important for Maryland construction workers to take into account. As we have discussed in previous blog posts, workers can focus on safety and injury prevention efforts on worksites as long as they are aware of the risks they face. Therefore, if workers know the details of work injuries – including when they are most likely to occur – it can help workers to be vigilant and improve their safety.

It is common to hear about concussions in the media nowadays, especially considering that they are a common risk in many sports. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines concussions as a type of traumatic brain injury, usually classified as mild. This definition might lead many people to think that concussions do not pose a large risk, but that is not true. Workers who suffer concussions on the job should not overlook the risk. Concussions are a common risk for many workers As we have discussed in previous blog posts, falls on the same level or from a height are some of the most common injury risks that workers in many industries face. And even though there is personal protective equipment (PPE) that workers can wear to prevent these falls, the risk of both falls and injuries seems to be increasing. Concussions are a common injury resulting from falls. They can seriously affect a worker’s: Balance Memory Vision Ability to focus In turn, a concussion can also significantly impact one’s ability to work. Even though most concussions take roughly two weeks to heal, it is critical that workers take time to rest. Rest is critical after a concussion Since many workers might think that concussions are a mild injury, they might continue to work. This is especially common if they do not experience extreme symptoms – such as sensitivity to light or severe headaches. However, it is important that workers take the time they need to recover after a concussion. These injuries are usually compensable under Maryland’s workers’ compensation law, which can cover medical bills and the time workers are out of work recovering. It is essential to rest for several reasons: Symptoms might arise later and put workers at risk while on the job Continuing to work and exert oneself could worsen the concussion Workers could suffer further physical injuries if they lose consciousness at work Concussions may not be visible injuries, but they are just as serious as any other. They may be defined as mild, but they are still a significant injury that workers must not overlook.

Workers in the cleaning industry complete jobs that others often take for granted. Janitors and custodians maintain a clean and sanitary environment in both private and public commercial spaces. They are essential workers, and yet the risk of injury they face each day on the job is often overlooked. Recent study highlights concerning risk of work injury for janitors This most recent study was conducted in Washington. However, the findings are certainly not exclusive to one state. According to Safety + Health Magazine, the study from Washington L&I found that one out of five janitors reported they suffered serious injuries on the job in the past year. This is a much higher ratio than workers reported in many other occupations. Unfortunately, this risk is nothing new. Workers in the cleaning industry face high risks and suffer more injuries than many other workers in a wide range of private industry jobs. Why is the risk so high? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that janitors face several risk factors daily at work, including: Overexertion and ergonomic issues Injuries from slips and falls Exposure to dangerous chemicals On top of these risks, many janitors work the night shift. This can contribute to fatigue and burnout that can increase the risk of injuries. Is compensation available? Reporting injuries and recovering compensation can seem daunting for many injured workers in Maryland. Maryland law covers injured workers who are injured in the course of and arising out of employment, regardless of fault. The fact that a worker makes a mistake or has an oversight that leads to an accident or injury, does not inherently bar that individual from receiving coverage for that injury. Employers and their Insurers are often quick to deny claims or neglect to explain to injured workers the real extent the law protects someone who is hurt on the job. It is often helpful to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney after suffering a work injury. That way, individuals can understand the options they have to move forward while they recover.

The workforce is aging, with a larger percentage of workers over 40 than ever before. And, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that the average age of workers across all industries is 41 years old. Of course, aging is a natural and inevitable process, and it does not necessarily prevent workers from efficiently completing their work responsibilities. Even so, workers over 40 must be aware of the injury risks they face on the job, as well as how injuries can affect them differently – particularly in the healthcare industry. Studies show hospital workers are getting older The healthcare industry might not have the largest percentage of older workers, but the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) notes that in 2011: Nearly 47% of hospital workers were over 45 The median age of hospital workers is 43.6 According to more recent data, the average age of a registered nurse is 51. This is both natural and common. After all, medical professions often require extensive schooling, leading many people to start their career at a later age than they do in other industries. However, they must know the risks If anyone understands how age can impact injuries, it is hospital workers. Many of them see the evidence regularly on the job in their patients. Even so, it is critical to be aware that as workers age, they are more susceptible to: Muscle strains from regular lifting or twisting Broken bones from even minor falls Illnesses and worsening preexisting conditions Workplace accidents might seem minor, but they can lead older workers to suffer injuries that are much more severe. Should an injury occur, workers should not ignore it or believe they can heal themselves. No matter a person’s profession, if injured on the job they should seek formal medical care and treatment. If the injury affects one’s ability to perform their work, requires missed time from work, or results in permanent complaints, a worker should consult an attorney ensure their legal rights are protected.

Anyone who works in Maryland’s public safety sector is committed to protecting others – but it is critical to note that this commitment often leaves them facing serious risks to their own safety. In particular, the risk of suffering a fatal injury on the job is especially high for firefighters, but new reports indicate that safety measures might be improving for firefighters across the nation. Fatal accidents down for firefighters A recent report found that, across the country, 62 firefighters suffered fatal injuries on the job in 2019. This number is of note since it is: The lowest the fatality rate has been since 1977 A stark reduction from even 2018, with a 26% decrease There were no multiple fatality incidents While the reduction in the fatality rate on the job is good news, any fatality is still a serious issue for firefighters. And according to the report from the U.S. Fire Administration, the purpose of tracking this rate is to increase awareness of what causes fatal accidents on the job and to help prevent them in the future. So, what are the most common causes of fatal injuries? Firefighters know they face significant dangers on the job, but what are the greatest risks to their health and safety? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the most common causes of firefighter deaths on the job are: Overexertion Injuries from explosions Internal trauma, from crushing injuries However, cardiac arrest remains the most common cause of death for firefighters. This is a stressful and challenging job – both emotionally and physically. These risks, in addition to the work environment frequently filled with gas, smoke and other toxins, create straining circumstances that make cardiac arrest highly likely. Cardiac arrest is often sudden and fatal. At the very least, it can cause long-term organ damage and health issues. While predicting the signs of other fatal risk factors on the job can be challenging, all firefighters must be aware of the symptoms of cardiac arrest – as well as the tips to prevent it – to increase their safety on the job. Fatal injuries might be slowly decreasing for firefighters, and they are eligible to collect workers’ compensation benefits for serious injuries on the job. However, firefighters must still be consciously aware of these risks every time they gear up. Additionally, there are often undetectable exposures that lead to serious illness after years of service, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.  Maryland Law recognizes the long-term risk of public safety employees, including firefighters, and such workers, even after retirement, may be entitled to medical coverage and compensation for their illnesses.

Falling from even a short distance on the job can put workers at risk of suffering a serious injury. And according to the National Safety Council, falls in the workplace are one of the top accidents that keep individuals out of work while they recover. Work injuries like this are unexpected and can lead to a considerable amount of stress and many questions. It takes time to heal, but many Maryland workers might wonder: when can I go back to work? How long will it take to heal from fall injuries? The time it takes to heal after a serious fall depends on multiple variables.  Most importantly there is no one-size-fits-all understanding in medicine as to a healing period, as each individual heals at their own speed. However, a general understanding of healing time is best determined by the type of specific injury a worker experiences. Soft tissue injuries that do not include broken bones or torn ligaments could take between one and four weeks to heal A broken hip bone could take between six months and one year to heal Broken or bruised ribs could take three to six weeks for recovery Spinal or back injuries, in particular, can be more volatile – and life-changing. However, if they are not serious, these injuries can take roughly six months to regain full mobility. Concussions are also especially common injuries that result from a fall. It could take roughly two weeks to heal, but recovery is also dependent on rest and the individual’s circumstances. All of these injuries addressed here are some of the most common after a fall. Depending on the number of injuries a worker suffers in the event of a fall, a full recovery could take several weeks, if not months. However, all injuries should still be evaluated on a case by case basis, and speaking with a physician is the best source to discuss recovery time. So, when can workers return to work? The answer to that question is not so simple. A return to work depends on the limitations of the injured worker as well as the nature of the employment a worker is returning to. Desk jobs and clerical work are less physically demanding, so workers may be able to return to work in a shorter time period. Conversely, a worker may have to remain out of work for a longer period, even if the injury is less severe, if the worker has a very physically demanding job, such as construction. If recommended by a physician, some workers may be provided light duty restrictions while still under medical care. Should an employer be able to provide accommodations, an injured worker could return to work while also receiving ongoing medical treatment. In other circumstances either a medical provider or employer may require an injured worker to reach a full recovery before they return to work. Regardless, the many variables in these cases can make the timeline of recovery uncertain. This is why it is critical for injured workers to seek counsel when injured on the job. Worker’s Compensation benefits and laws were established to protect the injured worker. Returning to work too soon may result in further injury. Obtaining appropriate coverage and understanding a worker’s rights are essential to help cover medical bills for treating these injuries and financially supporting the family while workers recover from the accident.

Many Maryland workers may know that falls and the overextension of muscles are some of the most common causes of injuries in the workplace. With how common these incidents are, it is no wonder that they are also some of the leading causes of back injuries. In previous blog posts, we have discussed how much a back injury can affect a worker’s life. Even so, it bears repeating that these injuries pose a serious risk all across the workforce. These injuries are far too common in many industries In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that back injuries were the most common injury that kept workers out of work for several days. There were 136,190 injuries across all industries out of the total 888,220 injuries recorded. In turn, there are several workers that face a high risk of suffering a back injury because of their job requirements, from healthcare workers to grocery and retail workers, or baggage handlers to janitors. These injuries are all too common, but workers must be careful. They can often be much more severe than they think. Beware of pain – it could be a sign of a more serious injury In many cases, workers know right away that they suffered a back injury. They feel a twinge, or they cannot move. However, it is critical to note that some symptoms of back injuries can be delayed – especially if they are the result of a motor vehicle accident. Therefore, workers must not overlook any back pain, as it could be a sign of a much more serious injury to the back or spinal cord. Workers should be careful to look out for serious symptoms, including: Constant pain Swelling or bruising Muscle spasms Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs If workers suffer a back injury at work, they should always seek medical attention as soon as possible. However, workers should also obtain treatment if they experience any of these symptoms after a workplace accident. Additionally, the worker should report the injury to their supervisor, immediately. Back injuries often have long-term effects, whether that is a long recovery time or dealing with chronic pain. Regardless, it can have a serious impact on a worker’s ability to move, work and fulfill the duties of their job. That is why it is critical for injured workers to seek compensation, so they can avoid financial stress while they heal.

Rotator cuffs are the groups of muscles around each shoulder joint. They are some of the most complex joints in the body, as well as one of the most frequently used. That is only one of the reasons why injuries – or even tears – to this joint are some of the most common work injuries Maryland workers must be aware of. A common risk for workers – at almost any time The primary risk of rotator cuff injuries is that they can occur immediately or develop and worsen over time. For example, if a worker attempts to lift something in an improper position or falls on their arm, the rotator cuff could tear. On the other hand, repetitive motions and use can cause damage and tearing over months or even years on the job. Many actions can cause a rotator cuff injury, including: Lifting Pushing or pulling Using heavy machinery and tools Reaching Slip-and-falls By this list alone, it is clear to see that rotator cuff injuries are a serious risk for workers in a wide range of industries and jobs. The chance of an injury increases with both age and use, but these injuries are still a risk that workers should not overlook. A rotator cuff tear can put workers out of commission Torn rotator cuffs do not always present severe symptoms. Workers might experience: Chronic pain in their shoulders Muscle weakness Limited movement These symptoms are especially common if the damage occurs over time. Immediate injuries might feel sharp or stabbing. In many cases, treatment for torn rotator cuffs includes physical therapy to strengthen the shoulder, but some workers might have to get surgery to repair their rotator cuff to regain use of their arm. Recovering from surgery can take an average of four to six months – and even longer for workers to be able to lift heavy loads again. Even in the event of an acute or sudden injury to a shoulder, many employers and insurance companies deny claims or contest the need for medical care as being unrelated to work. In such circumstances, the employer and its insurer contest that the resulting injury is degenerative in nature and occurred without a relationship to work. Workers’ Compensation benefits can still cover injured workers, even if they have a pre-existing condition with their shoulder. As a result, in order to understand their rights and obtain coverage while they are either in treatment, out of work, or both, injured workers should consult competent counsel to ensure they are protected.

In the current circumstances of the global pandemic, teachers are more concerned than ever about creating a safe learning environment for their students. However, teachers should also be consciously aware of their own safety. As we have discussed in past blog posts, teachers rarely anticipate that their jobs will involve the risk of injury, but several hazards could increase the chance of teachers suffering an injury at work. What steps can teachers take to prevent injuries on the job? Most Maryland school districts are beginning this school year virtually. Teachers and students alike will be engaging in remote learning like they did last spring. However, some schools will implement a hybrid learning plan with some remote learning and some in-person education. Regardless of how teachers are returning to work, there are a few things they must consider to reduce the risk of an injury: Keep the classroom clean: Slip and fall accidents are some of the most common causes of injuries for teachers. Whether they are back in the classroom or setting up a place in their home to be the virtual classroom, teachers must ensure the area is clear of hazards such as cords, bookbags, toys and even open drawers. Use ergonomic solutions: Teaching often involves repetitive motions which can lead teachers to suffer shoulder, back and even neck injuries. Over time, such injuries can cause long-lasting nerve damage or muscle tears that can impede movement. Therefore, teachers should carefully evaluate their actions throughout the day – such as bending or stretching to write or help students – and consider obtaining ergonomic equipment or implementing solutions to avoid pain and injuries. Take care of mental health: Recent studies have determined that teachers face high-stress levels on the job. Such stress is understandable, but it can lead to serious injuries, including cardiovascular conditions, burnout-related injuries and even long-term mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. Teachers should make sure they take time to focus on their mental health, so they can stay healthy, focused and reduce the risk of injury. Teachers have a lot on their minds as they begin a new school year, but they must make sure that their safety is one of the things they prioritize.