The Link Between Musculoskeletal Injuries and Construction Work
When we think about injuries at construction sites, we often think of falls, being crushed between objects, electrocutions, and being struck by objects. These kinds of accidents comprise OSHA’s fatal four, but they do not take into account the potential for musculoskeletal injuries from a construction accident. These injuries are more common that you may realize.
Zucker & Regev, P.C. has helped many clients in Brooklyn, NY, who’ve experienced musculoskeletal injuries due to construction work. Our lawyers would like to review these kinds of injuries and what legal options a worker may have if they’ve developed a musculoskeletal disorder.
What Is a Musculoskeletal Injury?
Musculoskeletal injuries refer to conditions that affect the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.
These kinds of injuries are not the result of falls, slips, trips, or related incidents per se. Instead, musculoskeletal injuries are the result of the body’s reaction to repetitive stress and overexertion.
Examples of Musculoskeletal Injuries
Common examples of musculoskeletal injuries include:
- Muscle strain
- Tendinitis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Cubital tunnel syndrome
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Tennis elbow
- Raynaud's syndrome
- Herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Hernia
- Bone fractures
Musculoskeletal Injuries in Construction Work
The above injuries are likely to occur at construction sites simply given the nature of construction work. The physical strain can take a toll on the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones over time.
People who have been in construction for many years could notice gradual aches and pains or limited motion over time, especially if their normal work duties involve bending, twisting, pushing, pulling, and other repetitive motions that put strain on their bodies.
Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Injuries
Some common risk factors for musculoskeletal injuries include any of these motions or activities while on the job:
- Awkward body postures
- Muscle exertion and effort
- Repetitive movements
- Vibration from power tools and equipment
- Lifting heavy objects
- Carrying heavy objects with unequal weight distribution
Reducing the Risk of Injuries on the Job
While certain job duties are unavoidable, there is a lot that can be done to make a work site safer for employees. Work sites can provide proper training to all employees so they are aware of methods to avoid excessive stress on the body. In addition, construction companies can also provide leave or alternative duties when an employee begins to develop symptoms or early warning signs of a musculoskeletal injury.
Having awareness of potential hazards and the ability to communicate your concerns and have them addressed can go a long way toward avoiding injury.
Can I File a Lawsuit for a Construction-Related Musculoskeletal Injury?
If your employer did not provide proper training or the ability to change work duties to address a musculoskeletal condition, you may be able to file a lawsuit to hold them accountable for the injury. Our Brooklyn-based lawyers can evaluate your case and help you understand what your ideal legal options are. Our attorneys are ready to listen to you.
Speak with Skilled Injury Lawyers
If you or someone in your household suffered an injury at a construction site, it’s important that you consult with an attorney. We encourage you to contact our law firm online or call our Brooklyn law office at (718) 624-1211.