The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLCAugusta Workers' Compensation Attorney | Work Injury Lawyer2024-03-15T20:38:06Zhttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1101453/2021/05/BH-favicon-2021.jpgOn Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=511442024-03-15T20:38:06Z2024-03-15T20:38:06ZPhysical changes and declining health
A key factor contributing to the vulnerability of older workers is the physical changes that come with aging. As people age, they may experience a gradual decline in muscle strength, flexibility and overall physical fitness. These changes can impair their ability to perform certain job tasks safely, increasing their risk of accidents and injuries. Furthermore, age-related health conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis and vision impairment can further exacerbate the risk of workplace injuries among older workers.
Slower recovery time
Another challenge faced by older workers is their slower recovery time from injuries. Older people may take longer to recover from workplace injuries. This may be due to age-related factors such as reduced healing capacity and increased susceptibility to complications. Prolonged recovery periods can result in extended time off work. They can also lead to loss of income and potential long-term disability.
Workplace hazards and ergonomic challenges
Older workers may also encounter workplace hazards and ergonomic challenges that exacerbate their risk of injury. Failure to adapt work environments to accommodate the needs of older workers can increase the likelihood of accidents and musculoskeletal injuries.
Per the Economic Policy Institute, more than 50% of older workers hold physically demanding jobs. Another 54.2% face unhealthy or hazardous conditions in their places of employment. By implementing appropriate safety measures, employers can help mitigate injury risks for older workers.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=511422024-02-12T19:54:03Z2024-02-12T19:54:03ZShocks
One of the most immediate dangers of electrical wires in the workplace is the risk of electric shock. When workers come into contact with live wires or faulty electrical systems, they can suffer severe injuries or even death.
Electric shocks can disrupt the normal functioning of the heart and nervous system, leading to cardiac arrest or permanent nerve damage. In addition, the intense heat generated by electrical currents can cause burns, further exacerbating the severity of the injury.
Fires
Another significant and costly risk associated with electrical wires is the potential for fires. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits or damaged insulation can all contribute to electrical fires in the workplace. These fires can spread rapidly, engulfing entire buildings and endangering the lives of workers.
Moreover, the smoke and toxic fumes produced by electrical fires pose additional health risks, such as respiratory problems and asphyxiation. Preventing electrical fires requires regular maintenance of electrical systems.
Tripping hazards
Improperly installed or exposed wires can create tripping hazards. Loose cables strewn across floors or tangled wires hanging from ceilings can cause workers to trip and fall. Employers should place wires away from high-traffic areas. They should also provide proper training to workers on how to identify and address potential tripping hazards in the workplace.
Electrical wires present hidden dangers in the workplace that employers and workers may not realize at first. These dangers could then lead to injuries and the need for workers' compensation.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=511402024-01-11T17:25:15Z2024-01-11T17:25:15ZReport to employer
The first step is to promptly report the injury to the employer. This should happen as soon as possible, preferably on the day it occurs. Failing to report promptly may hinder the chances of receiving workers' compensation benefits.
Seek medical attention
After reporting the injury, seek medical attention promptly. Individuals should visit an approved medical provider recognized by the employer's workers' compensation insurance. The medical report not only documents the extent of the injury but also serves as evidence when filing a claim. Ensure that all medical records are thorough and accurately reflect the details of the injury.
File a claim
An injured employee must file a WC-14 with the State Board of Workers' Compensation. They also need to give a copy of the document to their employer. This form collects detailed information about the injury and the circumstances surrounding it. It also gathers medical treatment details. Filling out the form accurately and comprehensively is important to the success of the workers' compensation claim.
After filing, it is important to stay up-to-date on all communications about the claim. Regularly check with the employer and the insurance carrier for updates on the claim's progress. This proactive approach facilitates a smoother claims process.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=511382023-12-15T21:53:45Z2023-12-15T21:53:45Z1. Slip and falls
In Georgia, about 76,520 people work as wait staff, and they are vulnerable to slip and fall accidents. The fast-paced environment of a restaurant, combined with spills and wet surfaces, increases the risk of slipping. Injuries from these accidents can range from sprains and strains to more severe fractures.
2. Repetitive strain injuries
The nature of wait staff duties often involves repetitive motions, such as carrying heavy trays or repeatedly reaching for items. This can lead to RSIs affecting muscles and joints. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome may develop over time, impacting the ability to perform essential job functions.
3. Cuts and burns
Working in a restaurant kitchen exposes wait staff to sharp objects and hot surfaces. Cuts from knives or broken glass and burns from hot plates or liquids are common hazards. These injuries may require medical attention and, in severe cases, could lead to time away from work.
4. Overexertion and lifting injuries
Wait staff frequently engage in tasks that require lifting and carrying heavy items, such as trays loaded with dishes and beverages. Overexertion and lifting injuries can result in strains, sprains or more severe musculoskeletal issues, potentially necessitating workers' compensation claims.
5. Assaults and altercations
Unfortunately, the hospitality industry is not immune to incidents of customer altercations or violence. Wait staff may be at risk of physical harm when dealing with unruly patrons.
Employers must prioritize workplace safety through training and preventive measures to minimize the occurrence of injuries and ensure a secure environment for their employees.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=511342023-11-11T04:19:28Z2023-11-11T04:19:28ZSlips, trips and falls
Slips, trips and falls are among the top accidents that affect movers. When carrying items, you might not see obstacles on the ground, leading to falls that can cause serious injuries. Ensure that you clear a path before moving items and wear footwear with good traction.
Strains and sprains
Lifting heavy objects can result in strains and sprains if you do not lift correctly. Always bend at the knees, keep your back straight and lift with your legs. Use team lifting strategies for overly heavy or awkward items and utilize equipment like dollies and straps whenever possible.
Cuts and abrasions
Handling furniture and boxes can lead to cuts and abrasions. Wear protective gloves and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin from sharp edges and rough materials. Be cautious with packing materials such as nails, staples and other sharp objects that can cause wounds.
Falling objects
Objects falling from a height can cause injuries. Pack items securely to prevent shifting during transport, and never stand under furniture that is being lifted or moved. Use caution when opening moving boxes as items may have shifted and could fall out.
The moving profession comes with risks that can lead to common workplace accidents. By taking these precautions, you can create a safer working environment and protect yourself from common injuries associated with moving jobs.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=511212023-10-10T16:05:49Z2023-10-10T16:05:49ZHard hats
The cornerstone of safety on scaffolds is the hard hat. Head injuries can be catastrophic, and a hard hat serves as a defense against falling objects or accidental collisions.
Constructed with durable materials, hard hats absorb and disperse impact energy, providing an important layer of protection for workers at elevated heights.
Fall arrest systems
When working at heights, the risk of a fall is ever-present. With 1,102 fatal injuries happening on construction sites in 2019, fall arrest systems are important for a worker's security. Fall arrest systems, consisting of harnesses, lanyards and anchor points, act as a safety net for anyone high above the ground.
Harnesses securely fasten around a worker's body, redistributing the force of a fall. Paired with shock-absorbing lanyards and anchor points on the scaffold structure, these systems prevent free falls.
Eye protection
The construction environment is full of dust, debris and other airborne particles that pose a threat to workers' eyes. Safety glasses or goggles provide an important layer of defense, shielding the eyes from potential hazards. Whether it is concrete dust or wood chips, the right eye protection ensures that vision remains clear, allowing workers to focus on their tasks without compromising safety.
Protective gear on scaffolds is not just a regulatory requirement, but a foundational element for the well-being of construction workers. Those in charge should take care to provide every necessary item for the safety of their workers.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=511062023-09-13T00:04:32Z2023-09-13T00:04:32ZCauses of workplace violence
Many different variables contribute to workplace violence in medical settings. Patients, especially those in pain or distress, may exhibit aggressive behavior due to frustration or fear. This can manifest as verbal abuse, threats or even physical violence. Overcrowded facilities may also have long wait times. This may escalate patients' anxiety and frustration, increasing the likelihood of confrontations.
Patients with mental health issues may also act out aggressively, posing a threat to both workers and themselves. Patients under the influence of drugs or alcohol may do the same, making it difficult for staff to provide care safely.
Consequences of workplace violence
Healthcare workers facing violence often sustain physical injuries. These injuries may range in severity from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma. Experiencing violence at work may also lead to lasting emotional and psychological effects. Some of these effects might include anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Workplace violence also disrupts patient care. This, in turn, may lead to medical errors or suboptimal treatment outcomes.
Preventative measures that address workplace violence
Healthcare organizations can provide comprehensive training to employees on recognizing and de-escalating potentially violent situations. Implementing security measures such as surveillance cameras, access control and panic buttons may also deter violence and provide a sense of security for staff.
Developing and practicing emergency response plans for violent incidents also increases the safety of all staff members.
About 40% of today’s healthcare workers report experiencing on-the-job violence within the past two years. Nurses are the staff members most likely to face violence, and most of the perpetrators are male patients between the ages of 35 and 65.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=506692023-08-02T02:20:35Z2023-08-08T02:19:31ZWeak and broken platforms
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a total collapse of a scaffold could happen when another person does not properly check it for weak or unsafe areas. If other people construct the scaffold incorrectly, it may not hold the necessary weight it should.
This means that when you walk or try to climb a ladder on it, it could leave you falling to the ground.
Thrown and fallen objects
When your coworkers decide to throw a heavy object or hammer to another person, there is always a chance it could hit you instead. Not only could this give you a head injury but it could also cause you to fall off the scaffold entirely.
Loose electrical lines
Walking on a scaffold is dangerous enough, but when those in charge fail to turn off the power to electrical lines you may come into contact with, it can severely harm you. Overhead power lines are a danger to workers on scaffolds high above the ground and can cause you to fall.
Dealing with a variety of possible sources of construction injuries is often frustrating after a fall from scaffolding.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=506622023-07-22T21:51:50Z2023-07-22T21:51:50Z1. What are some symptoms of major injuries?
There are a number of symptoms that can indicate a serious back injury. The most common are:
Trouble breathing
Problems going to the bathroom
Numbness in the extremities
Fever
Paralysis
Bloody urine
Any of these could indicate a severe injury, such as fractured bones, open wounds, extensive bruising or spinal injuries.
2. What are some signs of minor injuries?
Signs of minor injuries include:
Painful to touch
Pain when moving
Stiffness
Trouble standing up
Muscle spasms
Minor bruising
However, it is important to remember that back pain comes from a variety of places. Identify whether it is from a disease, age, fitness level, smoking, obesity or a work injury.
3. What causes them?
While people can injure their backs at home doing things like playing sports, they can also injure them while at work, such as if they are in a vehicular accident or fall. Muscle strain is also a very common cause of work-related back injuries.
Anyone with symptoms of a back injury should consider a trip to the doctor. That is especially true if someone injures themself on the job because identifying the injury means that they can receive workers' comp sooner.]]>On Behalf of The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, LLChttps://www.bryanshawkins.com/?p=506602023-06-27T03:54:09Z2023-06-27T03:54:09ZThe denial process
When Georgia workers' comp denies your claim, it signifies that the insurance company has determined that your injury or illness does not fall under the coverage of workers' compensation. Although disheartening, it is important to understand the necessary steps when facing claim denial.
Appealing the decision
Upon claim denial, you possess the right to appeal the decision. The letter outlines the reasons for the denial and specifies any required documentation or evidence to support your claim. Strengthening your case during the appeal process involves gathering supporting evidence such as medical records and test results.
The appeals process
Initiating the formal appeals process involves filing a request for a hearing with the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation. This request must include a comprehensive explanation as to why they should approve your claim. Subsequently, your case will receive a hearing before an administrative law judge, during which you can present your case, provide evidence and testify about your injury or illness.
Possible outcomes
Following the hearing, the administrative law judge reviews the evidence and delivers a decision. If the judge rules in your favor, you will receive your workers' comp benefits, granting you access to necessary medical treatment and compensation for lost wages.
In the event of a denied workers' comp claim in Georgia, maintain hope and take action. You possess the right to appeal the decision and present your case to an administrative law judge.]]>