One of the primary causes for absences from work nationwide is musculoskeletal injuries. Any employer can avoid a workplace injury that causes such production losses by complying with the safety regulations prescribed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The safety agency recently cited an automotive seat manufacturer in Missouri for safety violations related to health hazards that inspectors identified during a May investigation at the plant.
Reportedly, the rate of lost-work time at this facility was double that of the industry average as recorded by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Investigators found a lack of ergonomics management caused multiple injuries. The motions that led to these injuries included the repetitive motions required to assemble the seats, awkward postures, forceful exertions and workers having to reach to extreme heights and lows for extended periods.
The company received two Hazard Alert letters in which OSHA raised specific concerns. Along with the above issues, the agency noted the company’s implementation of potentially harmful tasks in the manufacturing process. Furthermore, injured workers were refused access to medical care, and victims of musculoskeletal injuries received no medical restrictions related to their jobs.
Such a workplace injury can cause chronic pain if left untreated. Medical expenses that accumulate may become overwhelming, and lost wages due to absences can exacerbate the financial consequences. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits are available, but proving such an injury is work-related might be challenging. However, with the help of an experienced Missouri workers’ compensation attorney to navigate the claim, the insurance program may award fair compensation to cover medical expenses and lost income.
Source: environmental-expert.com, “Musculoskeletal Injuries Cited in Violations At Seat Manufacturer“, Nov. 30, 2016