Metalworkers in Rhode Island have one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Annually, about 4.5 million employees in the metal working industry nationwide suffer mishaps of varying degrees, and they require medical attention. Though there are a wide variety of metalworking injuries one can sustain, the below five are the most common.
The five most common metalworking injuries
Working with different metals and fabricating them into products, buildings and more means working extensively with the hands, putting workers at a higher risk of injury. Chances are that most metalworkers will, at some point, suffer one of the following common metalworking injuries that qualify for workers’ compensation:
- Material handling injuries, including scrapes and problems with muscles and tendons
- Cuts and abrasions from sharp metal
- Eye injuries from small debris or flying metal
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Burns
Protective equipment, such as gloves and eyewear, can substantially reduce the incidence of injuries. Wearing secure eyewear is particularly important as safety glasses can prevent particles from entering the eyes and causing significant damage. Wearing the proper clothing to avoid severe burns can help prevent injuries that relate to fabricating metal.
Fighting against unfair workers’ compensation decisions
Even with your best efforts, sometimes workers’ compensation insurance companies will try to blame you or otherwise disallow your claim. If you are treated unfairly, there is recourse you can take. You can consider fighting the claim decision, or you can file a claim against the insurance company or your employer if you feel your claim was unfairly reviewed.
Keep in mind that insurance companies handling workers’ compensation claims work for employers, not the organizations that pay out the claims. Knowing this, you should provide the most comprehensive information available to back up your claim.