Philadelphia Industrial Workers' Compensation Lawyer
Industrial workers are at the heart of America’s economy, producing much of the food we eat and many of the goods we use every day. This broad category includes workers in the agricultural industry, workers involved in the mining and refining of coal, oil, and gas, construction workers, and those who work in manufacturing. Industrial workers with jobs in manufacturing produce a wide range of products such as cars, chemicals, food, furniture, metal and machinery, paper, and textiles. If you are an industrial worker and have sustained serious injuries while working, do not hesitate to contact Gross & Kenny, LLP. Our Philadelphia industrial workers’ compensation attorneys are here to help you pursue the benefits you deserve for your losses.
Injuries Suffered by Industrial Workers
The injuries that befall industrial workers on the job are as varied as the types of work they are engaged in.
- Repetitive motion injuries: Any worker performing the same task for many hours a day is at risk for this type of injury.
- Sprains and strains: These injuries are very common to workers who do the heavy lifting, work in cramped conditions, or must adopt awkward body positions to do their job.
- Chemical exposure: Exposure to toxic chemicals can occur in a significant event, such as a chemical explosion, or in small amounts over a long period of time. Exposure to certain chemicals can cause irreversible damage and occupational illnesses.
- Eye injuries: Caused by flying debris or lack of protective eyewear.
- Lacerations from slip and falls.
- Burns: Thermal burns can happen from contact with hot machinery or steam released from industrial appliances. Chemical burns can occur when workers are present during a chemical explosion. Electrical burns and shocks can result from improper maintenance of power tools, frayed or defective power cords, or failure to use lockout/Tagout procedures.
- Crushing injuries/amputations: Some of the most horrific industrial injuries happen when workers are pulled into moving machinery. Accidents that are not fatal often require the removal of the crushed limb.
Types of Accidents Common to Industrial Workers
- Slip and falls: These can be the result of poor housekeeping practices, weather conditions, or lack of signage where spills have occurred.
- Struck -by accidents: When work is taking place overhead, workers are at risk of being struck by objects from above. This could mean unsecured tools or loads on an overhead conveyor belt. Workers can also be struck by flying debris from power tools. This category also includes being injured by heavy machinery and moving vehicles.
- Caught in/between: Any moving machinery presents a risk of workers being caught at nip and shear points and becoming seriously injured.
- Defective machinery or tools
Preventing Injuries in Industrial Workers
Many of the injuries suffered by industrial workers in Bustleton and South Philadelphia are entirely preventable through compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety protocols and procedures, thorough training of workers, and use of personal protective gear. While most employers try to maintain a safe workplace, some are more concerned with meeting production targets than worker safety. Responsible employers use the following methods to minimize the risk of injury to their workers.
- Safeguarding all heavy machinery and power tools, and posting signs where hazards exist.
- Regular maintenance of equipment using proper lockout/Tagout procedures.
- Good housekeeping practices to prevent slip and falls, fires, and other accidents.
- Training workers for the hazards involved in operating heavy machinery and how to avoid injury. Workers that are moved to a new job should receive training on new equipment.
- Providing workers with appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Making the workplace ergonomically efficient to prevent injuries.
Because industrial workers often do physically taxing work, it is crucial that they have a safe environment in which to work and are not pushed to their physical limits and the point of injury. Workers have rights and do not have to labor in dangerous conditions. If you observe serious hazards at work, report them to your employer or file a complaint with OSHA.
In Pennsylvania, workers who do suffer an injury on the job have access to Workers’ Compensation benefits that cover all medical costs, lost wages, disfigurement, and partial or total disabilities. Families who have lost a loved one can receive death benefits. If your injury was caused by defective equipment, you can also file a third-party personal injury claim. Contact an experienced Philadelphia industrial workers’ compensation lawyer who can assist you in filing your claim and maximize the benefits you receive.
Learn More From a Philadelphia Industrial Workers' Compensation Attorney
Whether you are filing a claim for an injury or your existing benefits are being challenged, we have the knowledge and experience to help you. Call Gross & Kenny, LLP today to schedule your free consultation. We are conveniently located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas such as Bustleton and South Philly.
267-589-0091 
