Workers Comp Lawyer

At first, it might seem like an office is a very safe place to work. There are not nearly as many hazards as there are in the factories or construction sites. However, as a workers comp lawyer, like one from Hurwitz, Whitcher & Molloy, LLP, can confirm, accidents that result in serious personal injuries can also happen in office environments. 

Here are common office injuries to be aware of.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Officer workers are at risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. The condition causes stiffness, pain and numbness in the wrist or hand and can result from doing the same tasks over and over. Those who work desk jobs tend to type a lot on the computer, so they can develop carpal tunnel syndrome over time. 

There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing this condition. For one thing, you can request ergonomic equipment for your workstation, like a chair that is the appropriate height for your body. It’s also important to take periodic breaks throughout the day. Get up, walk around and stretch your wrists.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can occur in many work environments, including offices. Common causes of slip and fall accidents include liquids spills, wet floors, torn carpeting, poor lighting and clutter on the floor. These accidents can result in many injuries, including broken bones, head injuries and back injuries.

To minimize slip and fall accidents, clutter should be picked up immediately and liquid spills should be cleaned promptly. 

Back Pain

Many people think that you can only suffer back pain from doing strenuous activities. However, you can actually develop back pain for sitting for long periods of time. If you work a desk job, it can be difficult to maintain perfect posture all day. Unfortunately, sitting slouched in your seat can put stress on your spine over time and cause back pain.

When you are sitting at work, pay more careful attention to your posture. Always sit up straight with your shoulders pulled back. If you need more support, think about placing a small pillow behind your back. You may also consider using a sit-stand desk because it encourages you to move around.

Eye Strain

Officer workers are in front of a computer all day, so they can also develop eye strain over time. Eye strain can cause watery and dry eyes, headache, blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light. You can reduce eye strain by using proper task lighting, taking computer breaks every hour and using blinds to block outdoor light.

What to Do If You Suffer an Injury in an Office

If you sustained an injury working in an office, you may be eligible for workers compensation. Report the injury to your supervisor immediately and seek immediate medical attention. Then, discuss your case with a qualified workers comp lawyer. He or she can help you file a timely workers compensation claim and improve your chances of getting fair compensation.

Schedule a consultation with a worker comp lawyer today.