Getting injured at work can make life difficult. The injury itself can cause a worker a lot of pain and suffering, even during the recovery process. And though the medical expenses can be overwhelming, people injured at work can seek workers’ compensation benefits to help with those expenses.
Work injuries are a concern for many employees this weekend which marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Throughout Pennsylvania and the rest of the U.S., retailers are getting ready for the rush of shoppers that are sure to crowd through the front doors in search of a great bargain. But in the mad rush, are workers at risk of injury?
The biggest rush has already occurred early this morning. Employers, anticipating the rush, were encouraged by OSHA to take additional safety precautions to prevent injuries to both workers and customers. Many of these suggestions were in regards to crowd control. Three years ago a Walmart worker was trampled to death on Black Friday.
But even with crowd control strategies, shoppers still may push and fight their way to the bargains. Workers who were not given adequate training by the employer to handle such crowds may get hurt as customers push past them. According to OSHA, workplace injuries in retail stores have increased during the holiday season.
If you are injured while at work, you should speak with a workers’ compensation attorney. This can help you protect your interests as well as help you collect the benefits you deserve. Financial compensation can help alleviate some of the stress from medical bills and lost wages as you recover.
Source: Examiner, “Keeping associates safe on Black Friday,” Douglas Pilarski, Nov. 22, 2011