Posts made in April 2021

Most occupations require workers to perform repetitive tasks. Whether it’s typing on a keyboard or operating large machinery, many jobs can be physically limiting. Repeating your actions or holding yourself in a particular position for hours at a time has been known to take a toll on physical health. These types of work-related injuries in Oregon are more common than most people think.

What Ergonomics Are

Adjusting the work environment and conditions to reduce the physical stress and strain on an employee is considered applying ergonomics. Typically, jobs requiring individuals to remain in static positions or using repeated motions have the greatest risk factor for ergonomic work-related injuries. Assessing the environment and adjusting workspaces can often make a significant difference to the employee’s everyday experience.

Changing the Way We Work

Most companies today provide an ergonomic assessment for their employees. From something as simple as an anti-fatigue mat to changing a desk’s configuration, ergonomics can increase worker morale and preclude worker’s compensation claims and absences.

If you feel you’re working in an environment that could benefit from an ergonomic assessment, talk to your employer. Chances are they’d prefer to provide an accommodating solution than risk downtime and reduced productivity due to work-related injuries.

When you need to file for a workers’ compensation claim, several mistakes can slow the process or even cause the claim to be denied.

Don’t Handle Your Claim Alone

One of your first calls should be to a workers’ compensation attorney in Oregon to assist with your claim. They know the system and can provide guidance and advice to expedite your claim.

Not Keeping Accurate Records

Detailed and accurate records can make or break your case. Be sure to keep track of time missed at work due to the injury in addition to any medical expenses incurred. Your records can help ensure you are paid the correct amount of compensation.

Failing To Record the Injury

Immediately report a work injury to your supervisor and make sure they document it. Failure to do so or a delay in reporting can make it more challenging to get the claim approved.

Not Seeking Treatment

Even if you think the injury will not affect your day-to-day life, obtaining a medical record of the incident is vital. Documenting the history of treatment and expenses also means you have a medical professional’s opinion on your side.

Your workplace injury could not only affect your ability to do your job, but it could also affect your future health. Don’t take chances; talk to a workers’ compensation attorney to ensure your rights are protected as an employee.

When someone mentions a workplace injury, it’s likely that you picture a gruesome or dramatic injury. While these intense and sudden injuries are certainly a possibility, there’s another type of injury that is easier to forget about it. Take a minute to learn about repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) and how they relate to workers’ compensation in Portland, OR.

The Signs of RSIs

RSIs are a result of the cumulative effects of a repetitive posture or motion required on the job. This includes hunching over a desk, scanning groceries, lifting power equipment, and everything in between. Some common conditions related to repeated stress include carpal tunnel, tendonitis, and rotator cuff syndrome. Common symptoms include pain, numbness, tingling, reduced motion, and more.

Who’s At Risk?

There’s no one industry or vertical that’s most at risk for an RSI. If you complete similar tasks every day, you’re potentially at risk. That’s why it’s important to understand your compensation rights.

What Should You Do?

The first step is to pay attention. If you believe an ache or pain is related to something you do at work, be sure to notify your employer right away. Waiting to see if the problem will improve (i.e., “toughing it out”) is never the right option, as it can lead to more serious injuries. Additionally, your claim can be rejected if you wait too long. Because workers’ compensation in Portland, OR, is unique to our state, it’s best to contact a local attorney who can clarify the RSI rules for you and help you submit a successful claim.

If you’re hurt on the job, you deserve to be compensated. However, many employees forego the workers’ compensation process, believing that it will create more trouble than it’s worth. Take a minute to learn about some common preconceived notions that are simply incorrect. Instead, you’ll find the truth about workers’ compensation benefits in Oregon.

The First Myth: It’s Discretionary

Many employee benefits are non-mandatory, including retirement plans, vacation allotments, and tuition reimbursements. But you’ll notice that workers’ compensation isn’t on this list. That’s because it’s not optional. Your employer is required by law to provide these benefits.

The Second Myth: It’s Fault-Based

Some workers believe that they won’t receive any compensation for injuries that they cause themselves. It’s important to remember that this is a myth—even if your injury was due to your own inexperience or inattentiveness. If you receive injuries during work hours, you have a case for workers’ compensation. Keep in mind, however, that this does not apply to incidents related to drug or alcohol use.

The Third Myth: It’s Grounds For Dismissal

If your boss attempts to let you go after you seek workers’ compensation benefits in Oregon, it’s crucial to consult a lawyer right away. This is an act of retaliation, and there are significant penalties for employers who engage in such a practice.

Reach out to the attorneys at Mark Thesing Inc. to learn more about workers’ compensation.