In the world of Pennsylvania workers’ compensation, we work with Union Workers on a day to day basis. This is probably because hard-working union workers make up almost 15% of Pennsylvania’s workforce. Because unions represent a wide variety of trades, we see a wide variety of injuries sustained by union workers. With that said, there are certain injuries that seem to be more common than others. In this blog we will take a look at some of the different injuries that are common among union workers.
We often encounter union workers who work in tight spaces. Whether it’s installing a new ventilation or a new kitchen counter you are going to be bending, crouching, twisting, and squeezing yourself in order to tighten that last screw or bolt. These movements take a toll on your body, especially your neck and back. Over time, these movements can culminate in what we call a repetitive stress injury, where you didn’t have one specific moment you injured yourself but instead are suffering from the proverbial “death by 1000 cuts.” Many people don’t realize that these strains and other related injured are compensable work injuries.
Another common motion these positions share is overhead lifting and reaching. A plumber dealing with overhead piping, an electrician running wiring through ductwork, a carpenter installing a new shelving. All of these motions require you to exert force with your arms above your head. This can lead to wear and tear on the shoulders of worse a pop or sudden pain. Often this overhead reaching involves the use of drills or the lifting or heavy appliances.
Speaking of lifting, that is the last and perhaps most broad cause of injury to union workers. If you are in a union, you already know the most taxing aspects of your position and lifting is probably one of them. We cannot list every possible injury you can suffer as a Union worker but if your job is causing you pain and you simply can’t work anymore, you don’t have to go it alone. Some injuries are obvious and some develop over time. Regardless of how quickly you begin to experience pain, it is important to contact an attorney if you believe you have been injured at work. Call 215-627-0700 for a free consultation with one or our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys today.