The Dangers in Sanitation Jobs
We appreciate how much the sanitation workers of Birmingham keep our neighborhoods clean. Not only is their job physically demanding, but it also comes with hazards that many do not realize. Sanitation workers hold one of the most dangerous jobs in the United States, and that means more work-related injuries. Here are the reasons why sanitation workers are more at risk of being injured on the job.
How Do Injuries happen?
There are many ways a sanitation worker can be involved in a work-related accident. Here are the most common ways injuries can occur for sanitation workers.
Accidents involving motor vehicles - drivers speeding or motorists who do not see workers getting in and out fo sanitation trucks put workers at serious risk.
Inclement Weather Conditions - sanitation workers are required to work no matter what the weather. From dehydration to exhaustion, work-related health issues can arise.
Exposure to hazardous materials - bags that open while disposing of can put a sanitation worker at risk of exposure to chemicals and other toxic substances.
Working with dangerous equipment - sanitation trucks have many dangerous parts, and if not in proper working order, this can put a worker in danger.
Falling off trucks - for quick pick-up of garbage, sanitation workers ride unprotected on the back of trucks. One sudden stop can send them into a fall.
Falls from spills - oily substances and pools of water can cause a severe injury from a slip and fall.
Are Sanitation Workers Eligible for Workers’ Compensation
In the state of Alabama, sanitation workers are eligible for workers’ compensation. If you are a sanitation employee in the Birmingham area and have been injured on the job, you have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim. Having an experienced worker’s compensation lawyer assist you with your claim can help you avoid mistakes that can put you in jeopardy of a claim denial.
Contact a Workers Compensation Lawyer
Workers’ compensation claims are complicated, and having a skilled attorney in your corner can increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Contact Spellen Law, LLC today at (205) 820-9474 to learn more about your rights under workers’ compensation laws.