According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a worker died every 101 minutes from a work-related injury in 2021. While warehouse workers perform essential tasks to keep goods flowing through California’s supply chain, they also face a range of occupational hazards that can lead to injuries.
These common injuries highlight the importance of the workers’ compensation system in providing necessary support and protection for these workers.
What are common warehouse worker injuries?
As with any industry, there are common injuries that warehouse workers suffer from.
- Sprains and strains
- Slips, trips and falls
- Equipment accidents
- Exposure to Hazardous Materials
- Heat-Related Illnesses
Electrical malfunctions are also common ways warehouse workers face injuries on the job.
What is workers’ compensation?
Workers’ compensation is a program that provides medical benefits and financial assistance to employees who sustain work-related injuries or illnesses. In California, this program is under the control of the Division of Workers’ Compensation.
What does worker’s compensation cover?
Workers’ compensation covers any injury that occurs while you are working or performing work-related activities. It covers medical treatment, ongoing long-term treatment, temporary and permanent disabilities and vocational rehabilitation if necessary.
What does a no-fault system mean?
Worker’s compensation is a no-fault system. This means that an employee does not have to prove that the injury is the employer’s fault, a co-worker’s fault or the fault of improper equipment.
If you suffer from an injury at work, make sure you tell your employer and the doctor that your injury is work-related. This is very important to your workers’ compensation claim. When accidents happen, the workers’ compensation system is a safety net, ensuring injured warehouse workers receive the care and support to recover.