Blog Posts - Workers compensation
What Types of Injuries are Covered by Workers' Compensation in Pennsylvania?
As explained by Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, workers’ comp is no-fault insurance. Virtually all employers are required to provide coverage to virtually all of their employees. All types of injuries are covered by workers’ comp—assuming they are work-related. Here, our Cumberland County workers’ comp attorney provides an overview...
Read MoreWhat Should I Do if I am Injured at Work in Pennsylvania?
Were you hurt on the job in Franklin County or elsewhere in Pennsylvania? It is imperative that you take immediate action to protect yourself, your health, and your legal rights. At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., we put injured workers first. Here, our Franklin County workers’ comp attorneys explain what...
Read MoreHow Does Pennsylvania’s Workers' Compensation System Handle Exposure to Infectious Diseases in Healthcare Settings?
Health care workers face a number of unique risks in the workplace, including from the potential exposure to an infectious disease. Notably, Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system covers healthcare workers who contract infectious diseases on the job—as long as they can prove that they were infected due to a workplace exposure....
Read MoreCan I File a Workers' Compensation Claim if My Injury was Caused by a Patient or Visitor?
Unfortunately, health workers are injured at a higher rate than the average employee. One all-too-common safety risk: Violence by patients and other visitors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that “health care workers, particularly nurses, are at a far higher risk of workplace violence compared to most...
Read MoreHow Do I File a Workers' Compensation Claim in Pennsylvania?
Virtually every employee in Cumberland County is entitled to workers’ comp coverage. The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry explains that workers’ comp is a type of insurance that provides benefits “for employees who are injured as a result of employment without regard to fault.” At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger...
Read MoreWhat Benefits am I Entitled to Under Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation?
Were you injured on the job in Pennsylvania? You need access to all available compensation so that you can pay bills and support your family. The Commonwealth has a comprehensive no-fault workers’ comp system in place. At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., we help injured workers secure the maximum financial...
Read MoreCan My Workers’ Compensation Claim Be Denied?
Hurt in the job in Chambersburg or elsewhere in Franklin County? You have the right to file for workers’ compensation benefits. A workers’ comp claim is a no-fault claim. You do not need to prove that your employer was negligent in order to qualify for benefits. With that being said,...
Read MoreDo I Need a Lawyer to Handle My Workers' Compensation Claim?
Workplace accidents happen. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were more than 115,000 work injuries and work illnesses reported at private employers in Pennsylvania in 2023 alone. In Pennsylvania, injured workers have the right to file for workers’ comp benefits. These are no-fault benefits—meaning you can get...
Read MoreWhat if My Employer Does Not Have Workers' Compensation Insurance?
In Pennsylvania, virtually all employers are required to carry no-fault workers’ comp coverage for virtually all of their employees. If you are hurt while on the job, your workers’ compensation benefits will help to cover your losses. This raises an important question: What if my employer failed to get workers’...
Read MoreHow Long Do I Have to File a Workers' Compensation Claim in Pennsylvania?
Hurt on the job in Pennsylvania? You should file for workers’ compensation benefits if you require professional medical care and/or you were forced to take days off. These are time-sensitive legal claims. At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., we want to make sure that you have the knowledge, tools, and...
Read MoreCan I Receive Workers' Compensation Benefits if the Injury Was My Fault?
Were you injured while on the job in Chambersburg, Gettysburg, or elsewhere in Pennsylvania? You have the right to file for workers’ compensation benefits. You may be wondering: Can I still get compensation if I caused my own accident? In Pennsylvania, the answer is “yes”—though there are some limited exceptions....
Read MoreCan I Be Fired for Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim in Pennsylvania?
Were you hurt on the job in Pennsylvania? You have the right to file for no-fault workers’ compensation benefits without any fear of facing retribution from your employer. In Pennsylvania, you cannot be lawfully fired simply because you filed for workers’ compensation benefits. Here, our Chambersburg workers’ comp lawyer provides...
Read MoreDoes fault apply to workers’ comp cases?
In many accident cases, determining who is at fault is important. For instance, Pennsylvania uses comparative fault laws, meaning someone can seek compensation even if they were partially at fault, although the amount they receive may be reduced by their own liability. Someone who is more than 50% at fault...
Read MoreWhy workers’ compensation cases are underreported
Not all work-related injuries and illnesses are reported. This means a concerning number of employees are missing out on the benefits they deserve. But what causes these employees not to report their cases? Here are three reasons: Fear of retaliation It’s not uncommon for employees to avoid reporting a work...
Read MoreExceptions to the going and coming rule
When does “your time” end and “your employer’s time” begin? This is an important question if you happen to get injured and hope to have workers’ compensation benefits cover your medical care and lost wages. The “going and coming” rule states that workers’ compensation is generally not available for injuries...
Read More4 types of workers’ compensation benefits
Sustaining a work injury or contracting an occupational illness may make you eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. This insurance can cover the costs you incur due to the injury or disease. Here are four examples of the damages you can claim: 1. Payment of lost wages After sustaining a work-related...
Read MoreBill addresses misclassification to avoid paying workers’ comp
Employee misclassification is an all-too-common problem, despite laws against it and penalties for businesses determined to be guilty of it. It involves classifying a person who meets the legal requirements of an employee as an independent contractor. Pennsylvania clearly defines the difference between employees and independent contractors. Sometimes, employers misclassify...
Read MoreUnderstanding workers’ comp is essential for high-risk employees
In Pennsylvania, workers across many industries face daily hazards that can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. From the high-risk environments of mining and construction to the unpredictable nature of agricultural work, the state’s labor force is engaged in some of the most dangerous jobs in the nation. Workplace...
Read MoreSigns that you have a repetitive strain injury
Workplace injuries are a common occurrence, and repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) are among them. RSIs can manifest gradually over time, often due to repetitive motions or overuse of certain muscles or tendons. It’s important to note that not all injuries are immediately noticeable; some RSIs may develop slowly and worsen...
Read MoreNurses suffer back injuries lifting patients
Nurses face many risks on the job, one of which comes when they have to lift or move patients. This can expose them to potential back injuries or spinal cord injuries. Registered nurses typically have a very high injury rate, when compared to other industries, and this is one of...
Read MoreWhat parents should know about teens’ rights to workers’ comp
It’s getting to be that time of year when many parents start nudging their teens to get a summer job lined up. Teens are a big part of the workforce all year long – mostly working after school and weekends. However, in the summer, the chance to work full-time (or...
Read MoreThe top causes of work-related injuries
In workplaces across various industries, employees face risks that can lead to injuries. The National Safety Council discovered that such on-the-job incidents lead to workers missing the equivalent of 70 million work days. Recognizing and addressing these risks encourages a safer work environment with fewer injuries. The following are the...
Read MoreYour commute usually doesn’t count as a work activity
If you’re driving for work, then it counts as a work activity. If you get involved in a car accident, you may be eligible for workers’ comp benefits. For example, say that you work as a window installer. Every day, you drive to the central office location and meet up...
Read More3 workplace dangers nurses face
If you work as a nurse, you spend your whole day thinking about the safety and well-being of others. Sometimes, your safety can take second place, leading to injuries or illnesses that may prevent you from going to work and helping your patients. The workers’ compensation scheme exists to help...
Read More3 reasons a workers’ comp claim may be denied
If you get injured on the job, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. These can help to replace some of the wages that you will lose and they can cover your medical bills. However, there are some cases in which workers’ comp will be denied. It’s important to understand...
Read MoreWhat Are My Options After An On-The-Job Car Accident?
A lot of people have to drive as part of their jobs, whether they operate a delivery truck, travel to clients’ homes or attend a lot of out-of-town concerts. That means that there is always the possibility that they’ll end up in a wreck while they’re working. If you’ve been...
Read More3 dangers of working in warehouses
People who work in warehouses are essential for the economy. Working in a warehouse isn’t many people’s first pick, but it often pays well. Workers should, however, be aware that the job does come with some dangers. Here’s what you should know: 1. Forklift injuries When used by someone untrained...
Read MoreWhat are the dangers of working in a glass factory?
Working in a glass factory can be a rewarding experience, but the nature of the work also comes with risks and hazards. Workers must be aware of these for their safety and well-being. The primary focus in any factory job should be safety, especially when dealing with extremely high temperatures...
Read MoreThese 4 mistakes could hurt your workers’ compensation claim
Workers’ compensation benefits can provide a financial safety net if you suffer a workplace accident that affects your ability to resume normal work duties. However, making certain mistakes during the claims process can harm your ability to receive these benefits. Your claim for benefits may be unsuccessful or considerably delayed...
Read MoreA Number Of Bills To Protect Workers Are Gaining Traction In Pennsylvania
Workers across the nation have many rights. Some of these rights include protection from an unsafe work environment. This would mean that workers are protected from discriminatory actions or harassment. Workers are also protected from retaliation from an employer if a worker blew the whistle on unethical or unsafe actions....
Read MoreDoes workers’ comp cover repetitive motion injuries?
No matter your job, you likely do many of the same motions throughout your shift. Unfortunately, those repetitive physical movements can cause wear and tear on your muscles and joints over time. Since no specific accident occurred to cause your injury, you may wonder if workers’ comp covers you. Common...
Read More3 reasons to report your work injury immediately
When you are injured at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. In Pennsylvania, workers should be compensated when they are disabled by a work-related injury or disease. However, it will help to be informed to increase the chances of your claim being approved. And one of the...
Read MoreHurt at work? Stop posting on social media
Whether you work in a notoriously dangerous industry or one that is relatively safe in nature, you could end up sustaining occupational harm while executing your job-related duties. You could suffer acute injury due to an accident-related injury or become ill due to exposure to toxic substances. You could also...
Read MoreHow much does a work injury cost?
There are many variables to consider when a workplace injury occurs. The severity of the injury is going to have a drastic impact on how much it costs, for example. Those who have been injured on the job need to have some understanding of how much their injuries are likely...
Read MoreAmazon Hit With OSHA Fines Over Warehouse Safety Issues
Amazon’s image as a caring employer has been deeply tarnished in recent years by allegations that it puts timing and profits ahead of employee safety – and the latest allegations certainly aren’t improving things. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited...
Read MoreIs Walmart Doing Enough To Keep Workers Safe?
Large retailers don’t necessarily offer the best pay, but they do provide consistent employment for those who reliably show up to do their jobs. Plenty of people start or end their careers at businesses like Walmart where they can perform lower-demand job tasks and earn some money for their households....
Read MoreWhat are the top causes of forklift accidents?
Forklifts are crucial pieces of equipment in some industries. Anyone who operates a forklift should have the proper training to increase the likelihood of doing so safely. Around 1 million forklifts are in operation in this country, and there are around 1.5 million workers operating these machines. A forklift operator...
Read MoreAre Workplace Deaths on the Rise in South Central Pennsylvania?
Whenever workplace fatalities experience an increase, it’s a cause for concern. However, a recent report from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is giving more pause than usual – largely because the numbers paint a grim picture. According to the government’s report, fatalities that can be tied back...
Read More4 hidden reasons why workers’ compensation is important
Workers’ compensation insurance provides benefits to employees who’ve been injured or developed an illness on the job. Workers’ compensation may provide employees with wage loss benefits, medical care, legal fees and death benefits. Many employees have applied for workers’ compensation after experiencing a slip-and-fall, toxin exposure, carpal tunnel, car accident...
Read More3 unexpected injuries that medical workers can experience
Working in a hospital can bring with it some very serious risks. Nurses and other medical professionals need to be aware of the different ways that they can get injured on the job and the steps they should take if this happens. People often think of physical jobs like construction...
Read MoreIs Violence A Serious Threat For Retail Workers?
The average person would probably agree with the statement that retail work is relatively safe. Retail workers don’t get exposed to dangerous chemicals like those working in industrial facilities, nor do they need to work in dangerous environments, like construction professionals and fishermen. However, dealing with the public means that...
Read MoreHow Is An Impairment Rating Evaluation Handled In A Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Claim?
Any time you’re hurt on the job, you deserve an opportunity to seek compensation from your employer. You deserve to get the care you need to get on the path to recovery, and you deserve to be treated fairly. In Pennsylvania, you should know that you will have to be...
Read MoreThe top 3 things that workers need to know after an accident
There are many employment laws that protect workers from misconduct by employers and from dangerous employment circumstances. Every employer in Pennsylvania typically needs to comply with worker safety laws to protect their staff and to carry workers’ compensation insurance in case an employee gets hurt on the job. The benefits...
Read MoreAre Over-The-Counter Medications Covered By Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is designed to help cover your medical costs, your lost wages other costs that might stem from an injury on the job. It’s just a way for workers to know that they’re protected if they have certain risks at work. They’re not going to have to pay for...
Read MoreHow long should I wait to contact a workers’ compensation attorney?
Work accidents vary in both the types of injuries suffered and the severity of the underlying condition. Unfortunately, many injuries go unreported as workers either believe the accident was their fault or they will suffer retaliation for filing a claim. It is crucial to remember, however, that numerous legal protections...
Read MoreIs your workplace damaging your hearing?
Numerous occupations pose devastating risks for employees. Some workers face bodily harm such as broken bones and head trauma while other workers face accumulated damage such as toxic exposure and repetitive stress. Often, however, a work environment will directly threaten an employee’s senses. Whether it is the consistent drone of...
Read MoreElectrocution and other shock injuries in the workplace
Employees in occupations nationwide face hazards that could cause serious injuries and lasting conditions based on the work environment and job tasks. There are numerous occupations, however, where workers are more at-risk for catastrophic injuries or fatal accidents involving electricity. Electrical shocks, shock injuries and electrocution can result in serious...
Read More3 scenarios that could lead to workplace crush injuries
Workers in many occupations face serious, life-changing injuries on nearly every shift. From those working with heavy industrial equipment to those working on large-scale construction projects, some workers could suffer devastating accidents at nearly every turn. One type of injury that often requires surgery, a lengthy hospital stay and extensive...
Read MoreIs dermal absorption a serious concern for factory workers?
Workers in numerous industries face countless hazards during nearly every shift. Whether it is a single-accident injury such as falling down a set of steps or muscle strain due to months of performing the same task over and over, workers could struggle with lifelong injuries. Unfortunately, toxic exposure often represents...
Read MoreWhat role does third-party liability play in a manufacturing accident?
Many individuals mistakenly think that work injuries only happen in the most physically challenging occupations such as construction work, mining and first responders. Unfortunately, nearly any shift in almost any occupation carries the risk of injury whether it is toxic exposure, repetitive stress or slip-and-falls. Additionally, it is not uncommon...
Read MoreWorkers face serious cold-weather injuries
Many people equate workers’ compensation claims with single-accident injuries or exposure to toxic materials. Any weather-related matters are typically tied to concerns about heat exhaustion or working during the summer months. With the coldest months of the year fast approaching, workers must remember that frigid conditions in Pennsylvania can mean...
Read MoreWorkers’ compensation claims and employer interference
Workplace injuries can come in many forms. From a painful accident and repetitive stress to toxic exposure and job-related illnesses, employees have the option to file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation benefits exist to help injured employees avoid financial peril while healing. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for employers...
Read MoreWhat are the most common injuries nurses can suffer?
Medical professionals face different types of danger on every shift. From aggressive patients to toxic exposure, nurses often suffer devastating work injuries. While every experience is unique, there are certain types of hazards that are common across this crucial occupation. Whether in a hospital or other medical facility, nurses can...
Read MoreHow does WBGT relate to worker safety?
While nearly all individuals understand the importance of measures of air temperature, heat index, humidity and dewpoint, there is an additional factor known as wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT). Looking specifically at the stress caused by the heat of direct sunlight, WBGT is a measure of perceived temperature. Construction workers...
Read More5 of the most dangerous occupations in Pennsylvania
Occupations of any type are dangerous to workers on nearly every shift. Some jobs, however, are more dangerous than others. Based on data compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), certain industries carry an inherent danger and the possibility of fatalities for American workers. According to the U.S. Bureau...
Read MoreHow can third-party liability benefit an injured worker?
While many worker injuries result from slip-and-falls, muscle strains, and burn accidents on the job, others can be linked to the negligence of another party. When another company, product or person causes a work injury, it might be possible to make a third-party liability claim. Different from worker’s compensation, a...
Read MoreTips to keep the workplace safe from devastating heat illnesses
As Pennsylvania workers start to gear up for summer working conditions, numerous organizations warn of the hazards associated with heat illness. Whether working outside in the direct sunlight or indoors in a hot, humid environment, workers are reminded to take steps to remain cool and hydrated. No matter the workplace,...
Read MoreExposure to radiation in the workplace
Workers must be cognizant of the dangers they face on every shift. From single-accident injuries and repetitive stress damage to exposure to toxic and harmful chemicals, workers in various industries can suffer debilitating injuries and life-threatening conditions based on numerous workplace factors. Employees in several fields are in “at-risk” occupations....
Read MoreHow can construction workers stay safe in a highway zone?
While workers in countless industries face danger every day, construction work remains near the top of every at-risk category for worker safety. Whether it is falling from height, exposure to toxic materials or crush injuries, construction workers risk suffering catastrophic injuries on nearly every shift. Unfortunately, the risk for injuries...
Read Morewill automation increase or decrease worker safety?
Workers in numerous industries face devastating injuries on nearly every shift. From mining to construction to manufacturing, workers face daily hazards that could leave them facing a lifetime of pain and rehabilitation. Fortunately, many industries have found ways to utilize automation and sophisticated artificial intelligence to reduce dangerous environments. However,...
Read MoreCommon obstacles to a smooth workers’ compensation claim
Workers can be hurt on nearly every shift of nearly any job. While some occupations might be at higher risk for workplace injuries, even a low-impact job can impart stress and strain great enough to damage muscle groups, tendons or cartilage. In general, workers are eligible to recover compensation benefits...
Read MoreWork accidents can lead to vision impairment
While many people immediately think of single accident injuries that damage a worker’s back, shoulders or arms, workers’ compensation can cover a broad range of accident types and catastrophic injuries. Numerous situations can lead to perceptive challenges including the loss of hearing or vision. A workplace must provide the necessary...
Read MoreTypes of toxic exposure in the workplace
Whether it is from spilled chemicals, particulate matter in the air or inadequate protective gear, workers in countless occupations might face exposure to dangerous materials on nearly every shift. Workers who have faced toxic exposure must act quickly to protect themselves both physically and financially. While toxic exposure could come...
Read MoreWorkers’ compensation and repetitive strain injuries
Doug had worked for years in front of an injection mold. He spent his days pressing a button to activate the machine and pulling a lever when the piece had been molded. Every 12 minutes, the box of parts was full, and he had to move the crate from under...
Read MoreConstruction accidents and the different types of paralysis
As the weather begins to warm up for the spring and summer seasons, new construction, city projects and home renovations are all about to start up again in earnest. Throughout Pennsylvania, new buildings will be going up, winter damage to highways will be repaired and homeowners will begin serious renovation...
Read MoreConfused about workers’ compensation benefits?
As a factory worker, you are no stranger to tough workplace environments. From industrial-sized equipment to heavy crates full of raw materials, the factory floor is as dangerous as it is productive. When they wheel out a pallet stacked with barrels of plastic pellets for use in your injection mold...
Read MoreYou should absolutely file a workers’ compensation claim after an injury
Workplace injuries are common throughout the United States in all occupations. From a car accident while on the clock to a slip-and-fall on a wet floor in the warehouse, workers can get injured in countless situations. Fortunately, federal benefits exist to ensure employees don’t get overwhelmed by medical debt and...
Read MoreDo I have to go to the doctor my employer tells me to?
Workplace injuries can leave employees fighting to survive while returning to a state of pre-accident health. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits exist to help secure their finances while recovering. In Pennsylvania, however, employees tend to be at the mercy of the physicians list provided by their workplace. The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation...
Read MoreDo I need a workers’ compensation attorney for my claim?
Many employees feel that the workers’ compensation claim process is a straightforward transaction between the injured worker and the employer’s insurance carrier. Unfortunately, while it might appear to be a seamless process, there are numerous levels of complexity that can lead to a claim being delayed or denied. It is...
Read More4 hazards that could lead to devastating scaffolding accidents
Nearly every shift on a construction site carries the danger of serious accidents and debilitating injuries. From faulty power tools and the lack of personal protective equipment to ladder falls and crush incidents, construction workers face the threat of bodily harm at every turn. Unfortunately, while ladders and scaffold structures...
Read MoreWorkers’ compensation: what is toxic dermal absorption?
Workers in nearly every occupation face a certain amount of danger and uncertainty on each shift. From muscle strain, eye damage or the repetitive stress from working in an office setting to the physical hazards associated with industrial or construction labor, workers can suffer lifetime injuries. One less obvious danger...
Read MoreCan a social media post damage your workers’ compensation claim?
Nearly everyone with the technological capacity uses some form of social media. Social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn can be used to keep in touch with former co-workers, discuss life events with friends or seek new employment opportunities. Many people essentially live their lives online, however,...
Read More4 common causes of workplace accidents
It is no surprise that workers in an industrial setting face numerous challenges on nearly every shift. From mishaps involving heavy machinery to vehicle accidents, these workers can suffer debilitating, life-long injuries that can impact the entire family. While the factors that can lead to a workplace injury might be...
Read MoreFatal work accidents in Pennsylvania
Workers in almost every occupation face some sort of danger on every shift. It could be a vehicle accident, a slip-and-fall accident or even exposure to toxic materials – but nearly everyone faces the prospect of injury. Serious conditions, however, might lead to fatalities. Far from a fantasy notion, the...
Read More7 tips for ladder safety in the workplace
Construction workers and contractors throughout Pennsylvania rely on the use of portable ladders to work on the numerous height levels of a project. Unfortunately, failure to follow proper safety protocols can lead to serious accidents with catastrophic results. OSHA provides numerous tips regarding ladder safety. Here are seven safety recommendations...
Read More5 occupations you didnt think were risky
Workplace injuries throughout the United States are so prevalent that a social consciousness has sprung up around the topic. People automatically categorize occupations as “safe” or “high risk” while lacking the relevant data. In many instances, the classification is easy to make. Workers in construction, for example, are likely at...
Read MoreAre you overworking yourself? — Workers’ comp for overexertion
Like most people in Pennsylvania, you probably just want to put in a good day at work, get home safely and receive fair compensation for your time. However, do you ever worry that you are working too hard? Your great work ethic could put you in danger of an overexertion...
Read MoreIdentifying an unsafe work environment
Regular readers of our blog know that we have discussed risky occupations at length. From construction workers to those in heavy industry, all workers should remain hyper-vigilant in ensuring they have the proper training and protective gear to help them avoid disaster on the job. Here are some tips that...
Read MoreConstruction accidents – Preventing a trench collapse
Construction work is one of the most dangerous occupations in the nation. Every shift, workers are required to use heavy machinery, drive large vehicles and handle dangerous materials. In addition to working atop ladders and scaffolds, it’s sometimes becomes necessary to work in trenches several feet deep. When these trenches...
Read MoreWorkers’ compensation is more complex than a single injury
Unless you work in an obviously dangerous occupation such as construction, industrial or as a first responder you probably don’t consider the likelihood of getting hurt on the job. In reality, though, work injuries can result from countless scenarios. Individuals typically will automatically equate workers’ compensation with a single devastating...
Read MoreCan welding cause cancer?
Welders do some of the most important tasks in manufacturing and construction. A high-quality weld can make the difference between success and failure, so it’s no wonder that good welders are in demand. However, the job comes with risks. Most people think of the inherent danger involved in arc welding...
Read MoreOtotoxicity – Hearing loss in the workplace
Many people automatically equate a workers’ compensation claim with a single accident that occurred at work such as an industrial crush injury or being struck by falling debris. Unfortunately, while these accidents can be serious, they are only the tip of the workplace injury iceberg. Workers don’t often worry about...
Read MoreAre scars eligible for workers’ comp?
If you work in construction, you know the risks involved. Miter boxes, drills, cranes and nail guns are the tools of the trade, each one of them powerful enough to cause serious damage if you’re not careful. However, even the most careful worker in the world can be at the...
Read MoreBeware: Opioids might replace one type of pain with another
Opioids have become an epidemic nationwide, affecting the lives of thousands of injured workers and their families. The Workers’ Compensation Research Institute looked at opioid use in 21 states. They found that Pennsylvania and New York had the most injured workers who were prescribed opioids and then became long-term users. It is when short-term...
Read More4 types of robot related work accidents
The growing proliferation of robots in the workplace has sparked both scholarly concern and idle chatter around the breakroom. One fact that is unassailable, however, is that more and more job tasks are being fitted for automation. While many workers might worry about being replaced by their robotic counterparts, workers...
Read More5 tips to stay safe in a construction zone
Pennsylvania residents often joke that there are only two seasons – winter and road construction. With the expanding size and scope of construction projects, every year they tend to encroach further and further into the winter months. Projects start earlier in the year and continue deeper into the winter. No...
Read MoreOccupational skin disease and systemic toxicity
Workers in various occupations pay special care to avoid stepping on a nail, slipping in spills, tripping over debris piles or falling down stairs while carrying things. Unfortunately, it is estimated that more than 13 million workers in the United States potentially suffer dermal exposure to hazardous chemicals at work....
Read MoreDemolition robots: Should you be worried?
Robots have come to the construction and demolition industry. While they aren’t the autonomous droids from science fiction, they’re still quite useful. Companies are using remote-controlled demolition robots and laser-guided forklifts more and more for jobs that are too risky for people do themselves. When these robots work, they’re amazingly...
Read MoreIs your manufacturing job damaging your lungs?
Manufacturing is a tough job. Whether you are working as an order picker, assembly technician, machine operator or another role, you know how fast-paced and demanding the work environment can be. Jobs need to be performed quickly and there are a lot of potential hazards that you need to be...
Read MoreDo you have one of the most dangerous jobs in Pennsylvania?
Every employee takes on a certain level of risk as part of their job, whether they’re answering phones or working as a firefighter. However, some workers take on a substantially greater risk than others. What are the most dangerous jobs in Pennsylvania? More importantly, what should a person do when...
Read MoreTake care — even the cutest, cuddliest dog can bite
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hundreds of thousands of people nationwide, including Pennsylvania, receive medical treatment for dog bites each year. The agency further reports that approximately half of all victims of dog bites are children, with senior citizens suffering the second most dog bite...
Read MoreLandscapers face severe occupational risks in winter months
Landscapers in Pennsylvania do not only work when the sun is out. The nature of their jobs offers them few tasks to do indoors, and winter storms often have them spending many hours outdoors addressing broken trees and other weather-related damage. If you work in this industry, you might benefit...
Read MoreUnderstanding workers’ compensation benefits
Even a minor workplace injury could be devastating to your family’s budget. A trip to the emergency room for a broken bone, stitches or other injury can result in bills from numerous caregivers, including the doctor who treated you, the radiologist, any consulting physicians, the pharmacist and others. The hospital...
Read MoreThe many occupational risks faced by cashiers
Occupational hazards exist in almost all jobs. Many people in Pennsylvania might not realize that cashiers put their health — and even their lives — on the line to serve their customers. If this is how you earn your income, you will know that when it comes to robberies, your...
Read MoreForklifts could be life-threatening workplace hazards
Workers in warehouses in the area between Philadelphia and Baltimore face multiple safety hazards. Some of the most dangerous pieces of machinery in such facilities are mobile equipment such as lift trucks and forklifts. If you are the operator of such a vehicle, you might benefit from a reminder about...
Read MoreMachinery maintenance, installation and repair can be dangerous
There are many dangerous occupations in the United States. Everyone knows that construction, firefighting and similar jobs can be dangerous. But one occupation that gets a little less press for its dangers is installation and maintenance work on industrial machines and heating and cooling systems. While these industries are doing...
Read MoreHow can employers reduce falls on construction sites?
If you work on a Pennsylvania construction site, you understand that the job comes with certain risks. Despite the fact that construction work is inherently risky, you still have the right to certain safety measures on site. In fact, your employer is responsible for implementing appropriate safety measures, including steps...
Read Moreasbestos remains a significant threat to auto mechanics
If you work in an auto repair shop in Pennsylvania, you likely face multiple hazards that threaten your safety and health. Along with slip-and-fall hazards caused by spilled automotive oil and the cuts and bruises you can suffer, many car parts contain asbestos. This toxic mineral has remarkable fire-resistant qualities,...
Read MoreEyesight can be lost in the blink of an eye
Thousands of eye injuries occur nationwide every day, including in Pennsylvania. Do you give eye safety the consideration it deserves? Does your employer provide appropriate personal protective equipment to prevent eye injuries? Eye damage can occur in a split second, and although these injuries are preventable, you cannot eliminate all...
Read MoreProtect your limbs and your life while felling trees
Pennsylvania is one of the primary producers of hardwood lumber in the country. The logging industry provides work to a significant portion of the manufacturing workforce of the state. Are you one of the thousands of workers who put their lives on the line each day to earn an income...
Read MoreWhat are MSDs and how can ergonomics prevent them?
Regardless of your occupation, your employer must provide a workplace free of recognized hazards. Some known risks such as those that cause musculoskeletal disorders exist in almost all workplaces. High MSD-risk industries in Pennsylvania include construction, firefighting, health care, food processing, office jobs, warehousing, transportation and others. Exposure to known...
Read MoreProcess and engineering controls to protect you during roof work
Roof work is one of the most hazardous jobs within the construction industry. If your duties as an employee of a construction company in Pennsylvania involve working on roofs, you might benefit from a reminder about your vulnerability. Regardless of whether you work on the roof in residential construction or...
Read MoreHow to avoid falling, flying, swinging or rolling objects on site
Although an endless list of hazards exists in the construction industry, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a group of four to which they refer to as the Construction Focus Four. If you are a construction worker in Pennsylvania, you might already know that falls, caught-in-between, electrocution and struck-by...
Read MoreOccupational hearing loss can be life-threatening
If you have become aware of a problem with your hearing, you might be a victim of occupational hearing loss. If you think only older people experience hearing loss, you are mistaken. Excessive noise in workplaces causes hearing loss in millions of people of all ages nationwide, including in Pennsylvania....
Read MoreDo not overlook the risk of skin cancer if you work outdoors
Summer is here, and while most people in Pennsylvania likely cannot wait to get out and enjoy the sun, those whose occupations have them working all day outdoors might not realize the danger posed by the UV rays of the sun. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration started warning employers...
Read MoreNew innovations in workplace safety and personal protective gear
Rapidly advancing technology has brought about many changes in traditional workplaces. While many of them aim to improve production and profits, more and more industries now focus on employee safety. These are the business owners who recognize the fact that fewer workplace injuries can benefit their bottom lines. Are you...
Read MoreAs a paramedic, you might be the one needing emergency care
If you are a paramedic in Pennsylvania, you may have to face numerous hazards during every shift you work. A significant part of the stress related to your job will stem from the unpredictability. You will never know where the next emergency call will take you. What will be the...
Read MoreMachinery maintenance, installation and repair can be dangerous
There are many dangerous occupations in the United States. Everyone knows that construction, firefighting and similar jobs can be dangerous. But one occupation that gets a little less press for its dangers is installation and maintenance work on industrial machines and heating and cooling systems. While these industries are doing...
Read MoreHow to prevent and avoid the many dangers of working in trenches
How important is your safety to your employer? Do you receive training to teach you about the hazards of your job, how to recognize them and what precautions to take to avoid them? When it comes to trenches, some construction authorities say too many employers are ignorant of the applicable...
Read MoreYou are your own protector in the workplace
Regardless of the industry in which you work, you have the right to be safe. Some Pennsylvania employers prioritize profits over employee safety, leaving workers to protect themselves from harm. If your safety is on the line, you might benefit from learning about your rights — if you are not...
Read MoreDo you worry about exposure to infectious diseases at work?
Working in the health care industry puts you in one of the most dangerous industries in which to work anywhere in the nation. Generally, it doesn’t matter whether you work as a doctor or in food service; you have at least some risk of exposure to infectious diseases. The type of...
Read MoreHas your cold work environment caused cold stress injuries?
Is your health compromised? Then you might want to take special care if your job keeps you outdoors, in cold storage areas or unheated buildings. Safety authorities say the most vulnerable Pennsylvania workers are those who are older, have high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease. Exposure to wind and...
Read MoreGetting back to work after a work-related accident
If you suffered an injury in a work-related accident, you know how difficult it can be to pick up the pieces and secure the help and care you need. Injured Pennsylvania workers have the right to seek workers’ compensation benefits after work-related accidents and sicknesses, but it can be beneficial...
Read MoreKnow the rules about choosing a medical care provider
Employers with one or more employees in Pennsylvania must have workers’ compensation insurance in place, even for part-time and seasonal workers. This will pay your medical expenses if you should suffer an on-the-job injury or contract a work-related illness. Furthermore, it will pay a portion of the wages you lost...
Read MoreBeware — snow removal could be a deadly procedure
Removing snow from roofs is a dangerous task that can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. It is not only the snow that poses risks but also the structure. Older buildings might have structural deterioration that could compromise the stability of the roof when it carries the weight of...
Read MoreHairdressers have their own dangers to deal with at work
Do you think about construction workers, industrial workers and other obviously dangerous jobs when you think of work-related injuries? Most people do. After all, these are high-risk occupations in which workers face constant, numerous and persistent hazards as they carry out their daily duties. Nevertheless, other occupations also have dangers...
Read MoreSafety hazards to look out for in an auto body workshop
Employees in the auto body industry in Pennsylvania face a variety of health and safety hazards whenever they are in the workshops. If you are an auto mechanic, some of the dangers you will encounter include contact with toxic chemical substances, mechanical equipment that can cause amputation injuries and slip-and-fall...
Read MoreHidden hazards in loading docks can cause life-changing injuries
If you are working in a warehouse or fulfillment center in Pennsylvania, you will likely know the dangers that threaten your health and safety. While forklifts and falls from loading docks are serious and sometimes fatal hazards, there are more risks of which you should be aware. Some dangers are...
Read MoreThe hazards compromising your safety on construction sites
Pennsylvania construction workers face myriad risks every time they show up at work. Constriction sites are places that come with certain dangers, but that does not mean that the men and women who work on these sites do not have the right to a reasonably safe workplace. With training and...
Read MoreIf your boss caused intentional harm, you may sue in civil court
As a member of the Pennsylvania workforce, you may not sue your employer if you suffer a workplace injury. Your only recourse to get financial assistance with medical bills and lost wages is the workers’ compensation insurance program. This system protects employers from personal injury claims filed by injured employees....
Read MoreCan you rely on your boss to keep you safe in a trench?
Any construction site can pose life-threatening hazards, and only if you are aware of the potential dangers, can you identify them and take precautions to avoid injury. Some of the most hazardous areas on any construction site are trenches and excavations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides strict guidelines...
Read More5 most frequently cited causes of occupational injuries
A multitude of people in Pennsylvania and other states suffer workplace injuries or illnesses every year. Fortunately, employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance that helps injured workers cope with the financial consequences of occupational injuries and diseases. This is a no-fault system, meaning that you will be eligible for compensation...
Read MoreWhat’s threatening your safety at work?
Workplace safety is a critical issue for every employee and employer, no matter the type of job or industry. When employees face exposure to unnecessary risks and safety threats, it naturally leads to a higher chance that preventable accidents will happen. One of the simplest ways to prevent these types...
Read MoreYour job may require you to be in charge of your own safety
If you earn your income as an employee in one of the many warehousing and distribution centers in Harrisburg, Chambersburg, Bedford or any other cities between Philadelphia and Baltimore, you will likely be aware of the numerous hazards that are typical of these work environments. While your health and safety...
Read MoreOpioid crisis leads to changes in workers’ compensation laws
There is no question that the use and abuse of narcotics is dangerously high across the country. Reports of opioid overdoses and increased levels of addiction to painkillers make headlines almost nightly as the medical community, politicians and families try to figure out how to curb the use of these...
Read MoreDreaming of a safer workplace? You could wake up to that reality
Work injuries can happen to anyone at any time. Despite advances in work safety protocols and oversight, there were almost three million work-related illnesses and injuries in 2015, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. While there are hazardous work places with a higher likelihood of accident, it’s not always...
Read MoreProtecting your rights to compensation through an appeal
If you have suffered a severe injury while at work, you might be experiencing challenges in numerous areas of life. Perhaps you are currently unable to return to your job. When coupled with medical bills, a loss of income can lead to significant financial hardships. You might have chosen to...
Read MoreHow long is the waiting period for workers’ comp benefits?
Despite the efforts of safety authorities to protect workers nationwide, including in Pennsylvania, occupational hazards will always exist. Do you work for a company whose management focuses on profits with total disregard for employee safety? Your concern over your ability to care for your family if you should suffer serious...
Read MoreTraumatic brain injuries are prevalent in many occupations
How safe is your workplace? Safe work environments are an often-unrecognized contributor to the bottom line, but many Pennsylvania employers fail to prioritize employee health and safety. For this reason, you might be responsible for keeping a lookout for hazards that could cause you life-changing injuries or worse. Did you...
Read MoreDon’t take a denied workers’ comp claim lying down
If you spend your days working in an industry in which the likelihood of suffering a debilitating on-the-job injury is high, you may naturally be concerned about providing for your family if you are unable to return to work. Your employer might reassure you about workers’ compensation benefits that will be...
Read MoreAre you accumulating expenses due to a cumulative trauma injury?
Pennsylvania workers know that they have the right to workers’ compensation benefits if they suffer injuries in a work-related accident. However, you may be unaware of your rights if you are suffering from a physical ailment that developed over time as a result of the duties required by your job....
Read MoreKick your opioid habit before it kicks you
The opioid epidemic that has swept across our nation threatens the lives of people in Pennsylvania and across the country. Business owners in all industries have expressed concern about the threat and the impact it could have on their profits. Sadly, if you are a victim of opioid addiction, you...
Read MoreHow will your family cope if you are debilitated by a work injury?
As a member of the Pennsylvania workforce, you might be concerned about the welfare of your family should you suffer serious injuries in an on-the-job accident. Even with workers’ compensation insurance coverage, your fears are not without ground because there can be many pitfalls in navigating a benefits claim. Knowing...
Read MoreSuffering in silence: Hearing loss on the job
If you had to guess what the most common workplace injury is, what would you say? Back strain? Broken bones? Head injury? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the surprising answer is hearing loss. CDC data shows that about 22 million people are exposed to dangerous levels...
Read More4 important workers' compensation questions
Suffering an injury due to a work-related accident could cause considerable complications. Serious injuries may require that you take time away from work to recover and could also lead to numerous medical bills, which may leave you feeling overwhelmed. However, instances in which your injuries occurred due to employer carelessness...
Read MoreFranchise not responsible for workers' compensation claim
Those who are familiar with the fast food and restaurant industry know that the franchise business model creates nuanced relationships between the franchise and the business owner. Franchisees are small business owners who purchase a “brand name” for their operation. They are required to uphold brand standards and keep in...
Read MoreIs truck driving the most dangerous industry in America?
When thinking about dangerous occupations, most of us would likely assume construction work, roofing or logging as the most dangerous. However, it looks like trucking might be the most dangerous job in this country, at least in terms of work-related fatalities. More than any other job, truck drivers need to...
Read MoreHow much power should the American Medical Association have in workers’ compensation law?
Most people never think much about how the workers’ compensation determinations are guided. What standards are doctors and worker’s compensation insurance providers supposed to use when making health-care recommendations or benefits determinations? In Pennsylvania, the law states that the most recent edition of the American Medical Association (AMA) guidelines are...
Read MoreOSHA continues to improve workplace safety
Workplace safety is always an important issue, with serious, often life-threatening injuries being a regular occurrence in this country’s factories, construction sites and other workplaces. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has played a significant role in making America’s workplaces safer for many years. OSHA’s...
Read Morehow much will I get for a workers' compensation claim
The rate of workplace accidents went down last year in Pennsylvania, but 166,102 people still suffered injuries at work. These numbers might be even higher in reality because many workers still do not report their injuries or file for workers’ compensation because they feel like it won’t be worthwhile. Filing...
Read More5 common reasons for claim rejection
If you have been following our blog, you are familiar with the dangers present at the workplace. Those at construction sites, refineries and factories are aware of the perils connected with operating heavy machinery. Even with the proper training and safety gear, however, accidents happen. While you may have been...
Read MoreShould the federal government have more oversight in state workers’ compensation laws?
Few people who work for a living believe that the workers’ compensation program provides enough benefits. Yet year after year, many states are reducing the compensation available to injured workers and making the process increasingly difficult. However, the federal government might be stepping in to help make sure injured workers...
Read MoreChicken plant fined $317 for safety violations
Plant inspected by government agency after serious employee injury Last month, a chicken processing plant in Birdsboro was issued multiple citations and up to $317,000 in penalties for workplace safety violations after an employee’s finger was amputated. The plant was issued two willful and eight other serious safety and health...
Read MoreIf I return to work can I still get workers’ compensation benefits?
For many injured workers who are collecting benefits, there is a significant concern over what happens when they return to work. Especially if you have to return to work but you are still disabled and have to take a lower paying job. Does Workers’ Compensation Cover Partial Disability? The short...
Read MoreIs Pennsylvania workers’ compensation at risk?
Everyone who has been through the process before knows that obtaining workers’ compensation benefits is no simple matter. Although the idea is good, workers’ compensation has never been simple for injured workers to obtain. Insurance and government insurance carriers are notorious for limited and denying the claims of injured workers,...
Read MoreOil and gas can be dangerous business in Pennsylvania
There are no two ways about it: Oil and gas is dangerous business. While not one of the most productive states, Pennsylvania does has a reasonably good oil and gas industry. However, it also boasts most likely the least regulated oil and gas industries in the country since the passing...
Read MoreWhen should you seek help for a workers’ compensation claim?
An accident in the workplace can be a source of great upheaval and stress for a Pennsylvania family. This feeling of uncertainty only gets worse after a worker finds that filing for or actually obtaining rightful workers’ compensation benefits can be quite complicated. Fortunately, there are options available, including the...
Read MoreYou do not have to deal with workplace injuries alone
When a Pennsylvania worker is injured on the job, it can be frustratingly difficult to get the support and benefits needed for a full recovery. Fortunately, there are options for those who face workplace injuries. With the right help, it is often possible to navigate a successful workers’ compensation claim....
Read MoreWorkplace injuries: promoting safety for young workers
Many teenagers and young people enter the workforce to earn money, save for the future and gain experience. While these are admirable motivations, sometimes the jobs most readily available to young workers are those that come with certain risk of workplace injuries. It is particularly important for Pennsylvania employers to...
Read MorePennsylvania man suffers fatal workplace injuries
A Pennsylvania man died after a tragic work accident involving a forklift, cardboard and a stack of paper weighing one ton. The deceased suffered fatal workplace injuries while operating a forklift, crushed by the weight of one ton of paper. The accident occurred as a forklift operator hit a stack of...
Read Morehow can you claim the workers' compensation benefits you need
A work accident has the power to change your life in a moment. Even a minor injury can lead to continued pain, limited range of motion or even result in time lost from work. While Pennsylvania workers’ compensation benefits are supposed to cover the financial losses associated with a work accident,...
Read MoreNew regulations may prevent workplace injuries for firefighters
Fire fighters and other emergency workers face risks to their health and safety every day. In order to prevent unnecessary harm, employers must take steps to prevent workplace injuries to those employed in emergency services. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has recently proposed measures that could drastically change job requirements...
Read MoreOn-the-job injuries lead to OSHA citations for landscape company
A Pennsylvania landscaping company is facing citations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration after two workers were injured. The on-the-job injuries occurred last summer, and the fines were levied against the company after an OSHA investigation into both incidents. The accidents underscore the importance of safety measures for those who are employed...
Read MoreWorkers’ compensation death benefits after fatal accident
A Pennsylvania construction company has been fined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for an accident that claimed the life of one worker. Susquehanna Supply Company Inc., a bridge construction company, was fined by OSHA for violations that are considered to be willful and which contributed to a trench collapse. The deceased was...
Read MoreWorkers placed at unnecessary risk of workplace injuries
A Pennsylvania company has been fined more than $57,000 by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The company was fined for placing workers at an unnecessarily high risk for workplace injuries by allowing them to work in a hazardous environment. The company provides certain types of construction services, and it was...
Read MoreCompany faces fines for workplace injuries after amputation
A Pennsylvania company has been cited by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) after a worker suffered a serious injury while on the job. The manufacturer faces a fine of $74,000 for serious citations, which were discovered after a serious injury to a worker’s leg. The inspection from OSHA came after...
Read MoreWorkers’ compensation for hand-arm vibration syndrome
Pennsylvania workers who suffer an injury in a work accident or become ill due to work conditions are entitled to certain benefits. These workers’ compensation benefits are also available to workers who suffer repetitive stress injuries. A commonly overlooked work injury is called hand-arm vibration syndrome. This illness is typically seen in...
Read Moreclaiming rightful benefits for workplace injuries
Pennsylvania workers are typically entitled to certain benefits after a workplace accident, but it can be hard to understand what those benefits include. Despite the complexity of the workers’ compensation system, victims have the right to know about their rightful entitlements and the legal options available. After suffering workplace injuries of...
Read MoreProtecting injured workers in the oil and gas industries
Gas drilling is an important industry in Pennsylvania, but it is an occupation that can pose certain hazards for workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has outlined safety standards for drill sites and employers. However, many sites have gone without an inspection for an extended period of time,...
Read MorePreventing workplace injuries by protecting employee from heat
While fall does bring cooler temperatures, it does not mean that employers do not have to take measures to protect workers from heat exposure. Seasonal changes do not eliminate the need for employers to follow safety standards because workplace injuries related to heat exposure can happen during any time of...
Read MoreSafety violations common source of many workplace injuries
Pennsylvania workers know that proper training and the use of safety equipment are two of the main ways to avoid workplace accidents. Another key to workplace safety is preventing safety violations, a responsibility that lies with managers, employers and supervisors. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released a list...
Read MoreCompany places workers at risk for workplace injuries
A Pennsylvania company is facing a fine from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for exposing workers to excessive heat in the middle of the summer. The company was accused of making employees work in the heat for eight hours on a day when the temperatures rose above 90...
Read MoreMore employers work to prevent on-the-job injuries
It is thought that complacency is one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and job-related deaths. In order to increase safety and prevent more on-the-job injuries, Pennsylvania employers are striving to protect workers. Through more vigilance and an increased focus on safety and employee training, employers hope to decrease the number...
Read MoreWorkers’ compensation will cover man’s death at worksite
In Pennsylvania as in all other states, a person injured or killed while performing one’s job duties is covered by workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation payments to injured workers are paid regardless of fault. In return for a system that is supposed to pay benefits automatically for work injuries, the...
Read MoreWorkplace injuries: Noise exposure leads to OSHA citations
The list of workplace hazards that workers in Pennsylvania are exposed to is endless. Some workplace injuries or illnesses develop over time, and determining a date of onset is difficult. These maladies are sometimes caused by exposure to toxic chemicals, but exposure to excessive noise can also cause irreparable damage....
Read MoreAfter fatality, family may claim workers’ compensation benefits
The recent death of a Pennsylvania worker serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers and risks that are an inherent part of certain jobs. A pipeline worker was recently killed as a bulldozer rolled over him while he was working. While any work-related death is tragic, it is important to...
Read MorePreventing workplace injuries caused by heat exposure
During the summer, extreme temperatures and heat exposure threaten the health and safety of workers across the country. During this time, it is important for Pennsylvania employers to take steps to prevent workplace injuries caused by heat exposure. If a worker suffers the physical effects of overexposure to heat, he...
Read MoreFurniture company accountable for worker’s on-the-job injuries
Pennsylvania residents who work in a manufacturing facility know that such a job can be rife with certain risks and hazards. However, every employee has the right to the safest work environment possible. Employers must strive to do everything possible to prevent on-the-job injuries by supplying safety equipment and appropriate training for...
Read MoreIronworker suffers workplace injuries
When people go to work in Pennsylvania, they naturally do not anticipate becoming injured in a workplace accident. Workplace injuries, however, can happen at any time due to machine malfunctions or other workplace mishaps, some of which are beyond the worker’s control. One person in another state recently suffered injuries...
Read MoreStanding too long at work can lead to workplace injuries
Research has determined that prolonged periods of standing at work can lead to muscle strains, joint problems and back problems. While many jobs do require that workers stand, it is important that Pennsylvania workers understand how to seek deserved compensation for workplace injuries. In fact, standing can lead to serious...
Read MoreHow can employees prevent heat-related workplace injuries?
During the summer, it is very important for Pennsylvania workers to understand how to work safely in the heat. As temperatures rise, workers are exposed to a greater risk of heat-related workplace injuries and illness. With the proper precautions, employers and employees can work together to make conditions as safe...
Read MoreWorkers’ compensation for workers exposed to dangerous substances
Pennsylvania workers know that in construction and industrial fields, workers may occasionally be exposed to dangerous substances. One particularly hazardous material is silica, which can lead to cancer and death for workers who breathe in the particles. Those who have contracted illnesses because of on-the-job exposure to this and other dangerous...
Read MoreWe help injured workers understand their rights and options
The prior posts in our Franklin County personal injury law blog have focused on workplace accidents, specifically those involving scaffolding or other heavy or dangerous machinery. After workplace accidents of this type, injured employees are often left with serious medical expenses, forced to take significant time off work and have...
Read MoreWhat does OSHA look for after an accident with heavy machinery?
Scaffolding accidents have been the topic of the last few posts in our Chambersburg personal injury law blog. We focused on an accident involving a scaffolding collapse that left three workers dead and another with serious injuries. We mentioned that inadequate education and training could make even safe devices unsafe...
Read MoreScaffolding: a construction necessity, workplace safety risk pt2
In our prior post, we discussed a workplace accident that could have implications for many of our readers here in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. The accident involved a scaffolding collapse that took the lives of three men and left another severely injured. With the current economic climate, researchers with the Winston-Salem Journal...
Read MoreScaffolding: a construction necessity, workplace safety risk
Skyscrapers are incredible feats of engineering. They stretch tens of stories high with the perfect balance of strength and flexibility required to withstand strong winds and support the massive weight of the structure itself as well as everything inside. These impressive edifices require a significant amount of time, money and...
Read MoreSocial media and your workers’ compensation claim
Many people in Pennsylvania use some form of social media. Whether you keep in touch with friends via Facebook or post daily photos over Instagram, there is no doubt that social media has become engrained in our culture. Although posting photos of the meal you cooked last night may be...
Read Morecombustible dust may pose threat to pennsylvania workers
A significant portion of Pennsylvania’s workforce operates in an environment where an explosion can happen. Since these instances can cause catastrophic injuries and death, businesses need to take the proper steps to ensure worker safety. One of the most important ways to prevent these explosions is to prevent the collection...
Read MorePennsylvania gas well explosion injures one, leaves one missing
Pennsylvania has a thriving oil and gas industry. Though this sector fuels our economy by pumping money and jobs into local areas, it also places workers at risk of harm. Whether they are constructing pipelines, digging wells, or working with flammable materials, these individuals face the potential of being seriously...
Read MoreExplosion at PA plant kills one employee, injures two others
An explosion at a Pennsylvania factory has left one worker dead and two others injured. The accident occurred at the Mersen USA plant in Elk County after what management is calling “an equipment related accident.” The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation. Mersen USA is known for making...
Read MoreOSHA seeks to make workplace injury records more public
In order to keep workplaces safe, regulators and employers must work together to implement measures to keep workers out of harm’s way. One aspect necessary to attain such a lofty goal is accurate and adequate tracking of workplace injuries and illnesses. By knowing how many injuries and illnesses occur in...
Read Morebuilding collapse injures pennsylvania worker
Pennsylvania’s workers often operate in environments that place them at risk of harm. Safety standards and regulations, imposed by the government and employers, often prevent workplace injuries from occurring. Yet, sometimes corners are cut and mistakes are made, resulting in on-the-job injuries. A worker who is injured on the job...
Read MorePennsylvania worker crushed by pile of rock salt
In what has been described as a freak accident, a Pennsylvania worker was crushed to death after being buried by a collapsing pile of rock salt. The accident apparently happened earlier this month. The worker was inside of an excavator at approximately 3:30 in the afternoon and working on...
Read MoreFatalities increasing for workers in oil and gas industry
Fatalities among oil and gas workers are now reportedly at the highest level since numbers were made available in 1992 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. And while nonfatal accidents in the industry dropped in 2011, the number of accidents has apparently again increased since that time. At...
Read MoreNew study reveals workplace injuries of orthopedic surgeons
Orthopedic surgeons all across Pennsylvania are expected to be precise and highly skilled in order to perform surgeries well. Unfortunately, many of them also suffer workplace injuries as a result of their delicate work, and some of these injuries are severe enough to keep them at home. A survey published...
Read Morealliance formed to address safety issues of women in construction
Female construction workers face a lot of completely avoidable and unnecessary risks on jobsites here in Pennsylvania. Most construction tools, training, gear and safety protocols are designed for the use of men only. Most safety equipment is even designed and manufactured for use by male construction workers only, meaning that the equipment...
Read MorePennsylvania worker crushed and airlifted to hospital
After losing positive control of an asphalt roller, a construction worker fell beneath the machinery. Officials hypothesize that one of its hydraulic lines broke, causing it to move forward erratically. After he tried to divert the machine from the roadway, it became unbalanced, and he fell on the ground face...
Read MoreBlast kills one, injures 15
U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited a communications utilities contracting company for allegedly causing a gas leak that led to an explosion in Kansas City. OSHA says the company may be fined for as much as $161,000. The explosion occurred when a worker for the...
Read MorePennsylvania construction worker killed in fall
A Pennsylvania worker was killed in a construction accident last month after falling 25 feet to his death. The 28-year old worker was involved in the construction of a barn at the time that the accident occurred. Presumably the worker died at the scene as the county coroner’s office was...
Read MoreFederal bill meant to reduce workplace fatalities
Pennsylvania’s Senator Bob Casey supports a new federal proposal known as the Protecting America’s Workers Act (PAWA). The bill is designed to punish employers that refuse to take safety measures to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities. A spokesperson for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) believes that a great...
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