Every year, multiple Pennsylvania workers suffer on-the-job injuries and illnesses. While some of these situations are obvious, others are subtle, like years of exposure to vibrations.
However, extended exposure to vibration caused by repetitive motions, handheld tools and more can cause debilitating injuries.
How do vibration injuries occur?
Vibration injuries can be divided into two categories.
- Hand-arm injuries: If this type of injury occurs, it can cause the injured worker to lose the ability to grip items, cause a loss of dexterity and reduce the sensation of touch.
- Whole-body injuries: This type of vibration injury can cause lower back pain and chronic pain.
Both injuries are caused by ongoing exposure to vibrations.
Why do vibration injuries occur?
Vibration injuries occur because as the vibrations move through the body, blood flow to the affected part of the body is reduced. If this happens, cells begin to die faster, which can cause vascular and nerve damage. As this continues, the person’s quality of life will be reduced, which can result in the loss of other important functions.
Many injury victims experience chronic pain and other issues, including the need for finger amputation (in extreme cases).
Workers’ compensation for vibration injuries
If you experience an on-the-job vibration injury, you may be due benefits from your employer’s workers’ compensation plan. While this is true, there are situations where your employer may deny that your injuries occurred while you were working.
If you find yourself in this situation, you need to learn your legal rights and gather evidence to defend your claim for benefits. Being informed is the best way to ensure that your legal rights to compensation are protected.