What Are the Most Common Injuries Sustained by Federal Workers?
Injuries Frequently Seen in Federal Employment
Working as a federal employee comes with its fair share of responsibilities and risks. While many workers go about their day without concern for safety, workplace injuries can happen to anyone at any time. Understanding the most common types of injuries that federal workers face can help you stay informed about the hazards in your environment and the importance of workplace safety. Should you incur an injury on the job, Aumiller Lomax will be here for you. We serve clients nationwide with decades of legal experience. Get familiar with some of the common federal worker injuries we see in our field.
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) are among the most prevalent federal work injuries. These conditions occur due to the overuse of certain body parts, typically from performing the same action repeatedly. Federal office workers who spend much of their day typing or managing paperwork are particularly susceptible to RSIs, but these injuries can also result from lifting heavy objects or operating machinery without proper breaks. Examples of RSIs include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Herniated discs
- Trigger finger
- Knee tears
- Strained or torn ligaments
- Shoulder tears
Joint Injuries
Joint conditions are another typical injury among federal workers, especially those in physically demanding roles. These injuries range from simple sprains and strains to more severe conditions such as bursitis or tendonitis. Employees in construction or maintenance who frequently engage in heavy lifting and repetitive motions are at a higher risk of suffering from joint injuries.
Neck, Head, and Spinal Cord Injuries
Neck, head, and spinal cord injuries are some of the most severe injuries that can occur in the workplace. They often stem from falls or accidents involving heavy machinery and tend to have long-lasting or permanent consequences. Federal workers in sectors like construction, transportation, and law enforcement are particularly vulnerable due to the high-risk nature of their duties.
Stress-Induced Concerns
The mental health of federal workers is just as important as physical health. Long hours, high-stress tasks, and intense pressure to perform can lead to a range of stress-related health conditions, from hypertension to mental health disorders. Thankfully, you can help prevent these health concerns by focusing on a healthy work-life balance and utilizing employee support programs and resources.
Occupational Disease
Occupational diseases arise as a direct consequence of workplace conditions or responsibilities. These conditions can be anything from respiratory illnesses to skin conditions resulting from exposure to harmful substances. Just like with workplace injuries, victims of occupational disease may be entitled to medical benefits, disability compensation, and wage loss benefits.
What to Do When You’ve Been Injured
The immediate aftermath of a workplace injury can be both scary and confusing. However, the most important thing you can do after an incident is to seek medical help. Your health is vital, and always take care of yourself before pursuing legal action. When you’re able, you can begin this process:
- Tell Your Supervisor—Inform your supervisor about the incident and injury as soon as possible. Make sure they have all the appropriate documentation.
- Keep Records—Document the incident as much as possible. Note the date, time, and circumstances of the injury and record contact information for all witnesses.
- Make an Official Report—Fill out the necessary paperwork for the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA). The attorneys at Aumiller Lomax can help you determine which forms are relevant to your case.
- Stay Organized—Do your best to keep all documentation and records organized. Medical reports, correspondence, and expense reports should all be filed away in a safe place. You never know when you might need this information!
- Follow Up on Your Claim—After submitting your claim, monitor its progress. Keep in touch with your human resources department and the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP). They can provide updates and further instructions as needed.
Contact the Team at Aumiller Lomax
Once you know about the injuries frequently seen in federal employment, you can take better measures to prevent them. But even in the best of circumstances, accidents can still happen. If you are a federal employee who has been injured at work, remember there are resources and support available to you. The team at Aumiller Lomax is here to listen to your needs and recommend the best course of action to gain compensation. While we can never guarantee a particular result, we can promise excellent service and sound legal counsel. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.