Getting injured on the job or suffering an illness due to a work environment is never a pleasant experience. Those who have been through the difficulties that surround a workplace injury realize that it can sometimes be a long road to recovery.
What some North Carolina residents may not realize though, is the high cost of such injuries to the economy (roughly $250 billion) and also that one of the industries with the highest rate of injury is also focused on healing (healthcare). The healthcare industry ironically experiences some of the highest rates of workplace injury and illness within the United States.
As discussed in a previous post, there are many dangers within the healthcare industry and hospitals in general, with regards to workplace safety. These range from slippery floors to the speed at which healthcare professionals must work and respond to emergencies. Another area which we did not discuss earlier is the workplace illnesses that can arise when working in the healthcare industry.
Healthcare workers are constantly exposed to illness, medications, biohazards, as well as chemicals. Many of the patients that they care for may also be carrying contagious diseases, dangerous bacteria, and/or pathogens. With all of this in mind, it is no wonder that the healthcare industry is among the highest ranked industries for workplace injuries and illnesses.
If you work in the healthcare industry and you are unable to work substantially due to an injury or illness suffered during your employment, please contact a workers’ compensation attorney. Their knowledge and skill in assisting people like you will help them guide you through the process and give you peace of mind.
Source: melodika.net, “WORKPLACE INJURIES AND ILLNESSES COME AT HIGH COSTS,” Jay Gervasi, Dec. 19, 2012
