Meat processing is a serious and sometimes difficult job. It can also a be a dangerous occupation, because it involves heavy machinery and sharp blades along with chemicals and other hazards. Without the proper safety protocols, it can be surprisingly easy to get hurt. Even those who are very careful can still become injured simply because the job itself can be difficult and challenging at times.
Fortunately, the number of injuries in the meat processing industry is lower than it used to be, and the rate of injury continues to drop. However, there are still significant concerns for worker safety that can and should be considered.
How Much Has the Injury Rate Improved?
In 2004 the injury rate in the meat processing industry, which includes poultry, was 9.8 cases per 100. By 2013, that rate had dropped to 5.7. Those who worked with meat had a rate that was slightly higher than those who worked with poultry, but both types of workers were considered to make up the combined rate. That’s definitely good news for the industry. It shows that practices are safer than they used to be, and that more is being done to make people aware of the risks and how to avoid them. Still, rates are higher than for other types of manufacturing jobs.
The Most Common Types of Injuries
Most people think that cuts would be the most common types of injuries when it comes to working in the meat processing industry. It’s true that people are cut or otherwise harmed by sharp objects frequently. They can also be injured by machinery, but those aren’t the only kinds of problems.
Additional injuries come from all the pathogens and chemicals the workers are exposed to. Because of the nature of their job they can easily come into contact with dangerous and harmful substances. Musculoskeletal disorders are common, too, because of twisting, bending, and heavy lifting. There are many ways you can get hurt in the meat processing industry, and staying healthy can be a challenge. All of these injuries may make the individual eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Were You Hurt in a Workplace Accident?
If you’ve been hurt in a workplace accident, it’s very important that you know your legal rights and that you understand those rights well. By talking to an attorney, you can get answers to your questions and find out if you’re owed some compensation for your injuries. Your attorney can help you by giving you the knowledge you need and helping you get through the legal process, so you can be treated fairly and recover financially from getting hurt on the job.