Dowd & Corrigan, LLCDowd & Corrigan, LLC2024-02-01T16:09:05Zhttps://www.dowd-law.com/feed/atom/WordPressOn Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531492024-01-26T16:10:21Z2024-02-01T16:09:05ZHow assaults impact teachers
Student assaults can have profound effects on the physical and emotional well-being of educators. Verbal abuse, threats and physical attacks jeopardize the safety of teachers. They can also contribute to stress, anxiety and burnout. The pervasive fear of violence in the workplace undermines morale. For many teachers, it also detracts from the quality of teaching and learning.
What contributes to student-on-teacher assaults
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of student assaults on teachers. Underlying behavioral issues are common contributors. So, too, are a lack of disciplinary measures and support systems. Students facing mental health issues or exposure to violence at home may exhibit disruptive behavior that escalates into aggression toward teachers. Inconsistent disciplinary practices and inadequate resources for addressing behavioral problems also exacerbate the issue.
How to help prevent student-on-teacher assaults
Addressing student assaults on teachers requires a multifaceted approach. Educating students about respectful behavior and conflict resolution helps foster a positive school culture. Implementing clear disciplinary policies and providing training for staff on de-escalation techniques can also help reduce the risk of violence in schools.
NEA Today reports that 6% of public school teachers in the United States have faced violence at the hands of a student. By recognizing the severity of the issue, schools can help create environments where teachers feel supported, valued and protected from harm.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531382024-01-16T20:02:44Z2024-01-18T20:02:35ZInfectious diseases and chemicals
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration reports that dentists can become exposed to bloodborne pathogens and dangerous chemicals. Some chemical hazards include disinfectants, X-ray developing solutions and impression materials. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can lead to skin irritation, respiratory problems or even long-term health issues.
To mitigate these hazards, dentists should ensure proper ventilation in the dental office. Additionally, they should use gloves and masks. Those who work with toxic chemicals should carefully follow guidelines for handling and storing these chemicals.
Other hazards in dental offices
Dentists often work in awkward positions, leaning over patients for extended periods. This can result in back and neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. Furthermore, dental X-rays can expose dentists to ionizing radiation. Prolonged or frequent exposure can increase the risk of cancer and other radiation-related health problems. Dental workers must follow strict radiation safety protocols. Lead aprons, thyroid collars and proper shielding in X-ray rooms can minimize radiation exposure.
By implementing preventive measures, dentists can ensure their well-being and continue providing quality oral care to their patients. Remember, prioritizing safety not only protects the dentist's health but also contributes to a safer and healthier dental environment for everyone involved.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531362024-01-04T04:39:12Z2024-01-05T04:39:03ZHeightened risks on construction sites
Construction workers often operate at elevated heights. This increases the risk of falls. Even with safety measures in place, such as harnesses and guardrails, the potential for TBIs remains significant. The use of heavy equipment and machinery on construction sites also poses a constant risk. Falling objects and moving vehicles can strike workers. The impact of such incidents can result in severe head injuries. This is especially likely if workers fail to use proper safety equipment, such as hard hats.
Tool and equipment-related injuries
Construction workers often handle power tools and machinery. If they fail to exercise ample care when doing so, these tools can cause serious head injuries. Incidents involving saws, drills or other power equipment also contribute to the high prevalence of TBIs in the industry.
Construction sites are also busy environments with various ongoing activities. Falling debris, tools or equipment from elevated work areas can cause head injuries to workers below.
According to Occupational Health & Safety, construction workers face higher fatal and nonfatal TBI risks than employees in any other industry. Through stringent safety measures and proper training, employers and workers can reduce the prevalence of TBIs on construction sites.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531342024-01-02T21:18:50Z2024-01-02T21:18:50ZYour right to choose a physician
Under workers' compensation laws in most states, employees can select their own physician after a work-related injury. In Nebraska, for example, the law allows workers to seek their own physician unless they sign a written waiver of that right.
The importance of ongoing medical care
Ongoing medical care contributes to your successful rehabilitation and recovery. In addition to addressing your immediate injuries, continued medical attention ensures that you receive sustained, comprehensive support to manage the long-term effects of any injury.
Routine medical evaluations also help your healthcare team monitor your progress. That makes it easier to identify any potential complications and adjust your treatment plans. This also reduces the risk of secondary complications from delayed treatment.
The timeline for choosing a provider
The key is for workers to respond quickly if their employer designates a doctor. Within the required timeframe, the employee can provide written notice that they are selecting their own physician. While companies may pressure injured staff to see certain doctors, employees usually have the final choice.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employers reported 69,200 workplace injuries in 2022. With the prevalence of workplace injuries and workers’ compensation claims, employees should understand their options for medical care.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531322023-12-21T19:41:42Z2023-12-21T19:41:42Z1. Remote work-related strains
The surge in remote work has brought about a new set of challenges, notably in the form of ergonomic strains. Employees often find themselves working long hours from makeshift home offices, leading to increased musculoskeletal issues. Prolonged sitting, poor posture and inadequate workspace setups contribute to back, neck and wrist discomfort.
2. Technology-induced distractions
As technology advances, so does the risk of workplace injuries related to distractions. The prevalence of smartphones and other electronic devices contributes to the rise in incidents caused by inattentiveness. Whether walking into obstacles while glued to a screen or mishandling equipment due to digital distractions, employers must emphasize the importance of maintaining focus during work hours.
3. Mental health-related challenges
The spotlight on mental health in the workplace is growing and with good reason. Stress, anxiety and burnout contribute to a decline in overall well-being and can manifest in physical symptoms. Recognizing the signs of mental health struggles is important.
4. Increased automation risks
With the integration of automation in various industries, there is a growing concern about the potential for workplace injuries related to human interaction with machines. Employees may face risks such as pinching, crushing or impact injuries during the use of automated equipment.
In 2022, 2.8 million workplace injuries occurred, an increase of 7.5% from the previous year. For people dealing with these types of injuries, there are avenues to receive compensation.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531302023-12-10T01:47:43Z2023-12-10T01:47:43ZHigh-stress environments
Health care settings are often high-stress environments. Patients and their families may experience fear, frustration or anxiety. This can heighten emotional tensions. Health care workers often bear the brunt of these emotions. As a result, they often face verbal abuse or even physical aggression.
Understaffing and overwork
Understaffing in health care facilities can lead to increased workloads for existing staff. This can result in fatigue and stress. Overworked health care professionals may struggle to deliver optimal care. This can lead to heightened frustration among patients and their families. Adequate staffing levels help take some of the pressure off of health care workers. In doing so, they reduce the likelihood of assaults.
Substance and mental health issues
Assaults on health care workers sometimes result from patients or visitors struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues. Those under the influence of substances or grappling with mental health challenges may be unpredictable. Addressing these issues through appropriate interventions and support systems contributes to a safer health care environment.
Healthcare Finance reports that 40% of the nation’s health care workers have faced violence on the job within the past two years. Addressing assaults on health care workers requires a comprehensive approach. It also warrants a close review of the unique challenges of medical environments.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531282023-11-22T02:22:13Z2023-11-22T02:22:13ZRepetitive motion injuries
One risk from laboring in a meatpacking plant is developing a repetitive motion injury. Meatpacking workers perform specific tasks over and over for extensive periods, which can lead to debilitating musculoskeletal disorders. Such ailments commonly affect the hands, wrists and shoulders, causing intense pain and severely limiting mobility.
Chemical and biological exposure
Meatpacking involves extensive use of cleaning agents and sanitizers. Workers may experience contact with these substances, subsequently leading to skin irritation, respiratory issues and other health problems. Additionally, handling raw meat increases vulnerability to harmful biological agents that cause infections and illnesses.
Amputation and crushing accidents
Meatpacking plants use heavy machinery for processing and packaging. Employees operating them face the constant threat of losing a limb or experiencing a crush injury. Vigilance and proper training are necessary to prevent such incidents.
Hearing damage
The machines in meatpacking warehouses generate high levels of noise, exposing those nearby to the threat of hearing loss. Adequate protection is necessary to protect the ear's sensitive inner parts. Anyone earning a living in the meatpacking industry could become one of the 28.8 million Americans needing a hearing aid.
The hazards associated with meatpacking plants have significant implications. Employers must adhere to many safety standards that foster a healthier working environment.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531252023-11-09T23:46:54Z2023-11-09T23:46:54ZWhy are slip-and-fall injuries common among teachers?
Teachers spend a large portion of their day on their feet, moving around the classroom, and sometimes even dealing with spills, scattered school supplies and unruly students. The combination of multitasking, limited time, and a sometimes chaotic classroom environment can make them more susceptible to slip-and-fall accidents. Additionally, schools often have a wide variety of surfaces, from tile floors to carpets, which can become slippery when wet. In addition to being painful, slip-and-fall injuries are one of the leading causes of days off work due to an injury.
What can teachers do to prevent a slip-and-fall injury?
Preventing slips and falls among educators begins with raising awareness and taking proactive measures. Educators should receive training to recognize potential hazards and respond promptly to spills or slippery surfaces. Schools can contribute by installing non-slip flooring, ensuring adequate lighting, and placing warning signs where necessary. Educators should also wear appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles.
Teachers play a huge role in shaping the future, so their well-being and safety should be a top priority.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531232023-10-27T21:47:22Z2023-10-27T21:47:22ZCauses of falls from scaffolding
Many falls from scaffolding occur when proper fall protection measures are absent. This includes items like guardrails, safety nets and personal fall arrest systems. Without these safeguards in place, workers face a heightened risk of losing their balance and falling.
Inadequate training is another factor contributing to scaffolding accidents. Workers need to receive education about how to assemble, use and disassemble scaffolding safely. When they lack this knowledge, they may inadvertently create unstable platforms, increasing the risk of falls.
Consequences of falls from scaffolding
Falls from scaffolding can lead to a wide range of injuries, from sprains and fractures to head injuries and spinal cord damage. These injuries often need medical attention, and recovery can be lengthy and challenging. Falls from scaffolding can also lead to fatalities.
Beyond the human toll, falls from scaffolding also have financial implications. Construction companies may face increased insurance costs, potential legal expenses and lost productivity due to workplace accidents.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration reports that about 65% of the nation’s construction workers use scaffolding regularly. By addressing the root causes and implementing preventive measures, construction companies can make worksites safer for their employees.]]>On Behalf of Dowd & Corrigan, LLChttps://www.dowd-law.com/?p=531212023-10-21T15:08:45Z2023-10-21T15:08:45ZShock and uncertainty
The shock of the incident could include worries about a near brush with death. In fact, there were 5,190 deaths in United States workplaces in 2021.
The abrupt interruption of a daily work routine can leave you bewildered and grappling with the sudden shift in circumstances. You may even feel uncertainty about the future, which can trigger anxiety and stress. Your mind, accustomed to the predictability of a daily grind, is suddenly thrust into unfamiliar territory.
Loss of control and independence
Workplace injuries can strip you of your sense of control and independence. Once self-reliant, you may find yourself dependent on others for even the most basic tasks.
This loss of autonomy can be emotionally distressing, leading to feelings of helplessness and frustration. Your mind struggles to reconcile with this newfound vulnerability, amplifying the psychological impact of the injury.
Social isolation and alienation
Injuries often result in altered social dynamics at the workplace. Colleagues, unsure of how to navigate the changed circumstances, may unintentionally distance themselves. You could feel a sense of isolation and alienation.
Fear of repercussions and job insecurity
Uncertainties and fears about future professional endeavors may weigh heavily on your mind. Concerns about job security, coupled with the apprehension of meeting professional expectations post-recovery, could lead to heightened stress levels.
A workplace injury is a complex event that can change your life in a minute. Addressing these challenges is important to fostering a supportive environment as you navigate the intricate terrain of recovery.]]>