Staten Island Workers' Compensation Law Blog

In 2017, Fortune reported that work-related fatalities in the construction industry had reached its highest levels since the recession. While the study did not single out New York, this may nonetheless cause some concern among New Yorkers who work in the construction industry. There is some good news, however, as Fortune stated that despite this hike in work-related deaths, American work-related fatalities had trended downward.

Four decades ago, the number of workers killed on the job each year was around 14,000. Fast-forward to the present and that number is around 5,000. Work has, in general, become a safer place for Americans. However, the construction industry defies this trend by consistently spiking upward. In spite of this, construction is still not the most dangerous profession. Truck drivers have the highest fatality rates, while the logging industry has the most injuries.

While you enjoy going to work each day, you also appreciate knowing that while you are at work that you are in an environment that is safe, functional and productive. While every job has its unique risks, if your employer fails to manage these risks, you and your coworkers could end up hurt. At Angiuli & Gentile, LLP Attorneys at Law, we understand the concerns that workers in New York have when they go to work each day. 

While dangerous workplace risks are often associated with hazards such as being crushed or burned or falling from multiple stories, risks can manifest themselves in a variety of ways including how your body reacts to certain environments and factors that you are exposed to. Latex gloves, for example, while convenient for many jobs and industries can be harmful to you if you are allergic to the components used in their creation. If you are concerned about an allergic reaction, you should immediately notify your employer and request an alternative solution so you can avoid an unnecessary illness stemming from your reaction. 

Some of these misunderstandings prevent injured workers from reaping the benefits they need to get back on their feet. Here are just a few of them.

Our blog has addressed many different types of workplace accidents that shatter the lives of hard-working people. However, it is critical to remember that people employed in any field may be hurt while performing their job duties. Some people may think about construction workers and those who face significant risks on a daily basis. However, those employed in relatively safer lines of work may also be hurt while carrying out their job responsibilities. For example, a teacher may be hurt on the job, and these accidents can also be very devastating from a financial and physical point of view.

Teachers can be hurt in many ways while working. Some may no longer be able to work because of a repetitive strain injury brought on by frequent typing and computer use. Or, a teacher may fall down after tripping on an object in the classroom or be hurt while trying to hang something up. Moreover, a teacher may even be injured when they are attacked by a student or a co-worker. Gym teachers and those whose job involves the use of chemicals may also face unique risks related to their occupation.