Workplace safety is a critical concern for employers and employees alike. A recent study by the Workers Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) has shed light on a leading risk factor in work-related injuries and illnesses: rising temperatures. Researchers compiled data and weather information from 24 states between 2016 and 2021. They discovered a clear link between higher outdoor temperatures and an increased likelihood of work-related injuries.

How does excessive heat lead to work injuries and illnesses?

According to the WCRI study, when the daily high temperature reaches 85-90°F, the chance of a worker sustaining an injury is 4.3% greater compared to days when temperatures are between 65-70°F. This risk continues to rise as temperatures climb, with a 5.3% greater chance of injury when the daily high is 90-95°F and a 6% greater chance when temperatures soar to 95°F or above.

The study also found that excessive heat has a more significant impact on traumatic injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, contusions, and lacerations.

Who is the most at risk for work injuries from excessive heat?

The construction industry is particularly vulnerable to the effects of excessive heat on worker safety. The WCRI study found that when the daily high temperature reaches 90-95°F, construction workers face a 14% higher chance of injury compared to days with temperatures between 65-70°F. This risk escalates to a striking 20% greater likelihood of injury when the daily high temperature climbs to 95-100°F.

The study also revealed regional variations in the impact of high temperatures on workplace injuries. In the South—where hot weather is more prevalent—workers exhibited a higher risk of injury under elevated temperatures.

Surprisingly, the Northeast also experienced an 8% rise in injuries when the daily high temperature reached 90-100°F compared to days with temperatures between 65-70°F.

What are common heat-related injuries at work?

Common injuries and illnesses at work due to excessive heat include:

• Heat stroke: This occurs when the body fails to regulate its temperature. Symptoms include high body temperature, confusion, altered mental state, and loss of consciousness. Immediate medical attention is required for this condition.
• Heat exhaustion: This condition includes heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps. It often occurs due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when combined with high humidity and strenuous physical activity.
• Heat cramps: These are painful, involuntary muscle spasms that usually occur in the abdomen, arms, or legs. They’re often a result of heavy sweating and loss of electrolytes during strenuous activity.
• Heat rash: This appears as red clusters of small blisters or pimples on the skin, typically in areas where clothing causes friction.
• Heat syncope: This is a sudden dizziness or fainting episode due to prolonged standing or sudden rising from a sitting or lying position in a hot environment. It is caused by a reduction in blood flow to the brain as blood pools in the legs.
• Heat edema: This is swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles that can occur when working in a hot environment. It’s typically caused by the body’s adaptation to heat, which includes the dilation of blood vessels and increased fluid retention.

What should employers do to prevent heat-related work injuries?

Employers should prioritize the development and implementation of heat safety protocols, including providing adequate hydration, rest breaks, and shade or cooling areas for workers. Policymakers should consider the implications of rising temperatures on worker safety and explore potential regulations or guidelines to mitigate the risk of heat-related injuries. Further research and data collection are necessary to better understand the issue and inform evidence-based decision-making.

Get the benefits you deserve after a work-related heat injury

If you have suffered a work-related injury due to excessive heat exposure, it’s important to seek help from an experienced workers’ compensation attorney at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl. With nearly 100 years of combined experience handling workers’ compensation cases in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, we understand the system and can help you obtain the benefits you deserve.

We believe every hard-working person deserves full and fair compensation for workplace injuries. We’re committed to providing personalized legal support tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you.

The number of workers killed in trenching and excavation accidents nearly tripled from 15 in 2021 to 39 in 2022. A new report from The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) sheds light on this tragic trend. It examines data on fatal and nonfatal injuries as well as Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforcement of trenching standards.

The findings shed light on the importance of the annual Trench Safety Stand Down in promoting safe work practices to protect workers from preventable trench collapses and other hazards.

How common are trenching and excavation accidents?

Construction workers face a disproportionate risk of trenching and excavation accidents, with the industry accounting for a staggering share of both fatal and nonfatal injuries:

• From 2011 to 2021, construction workers made up 85% of all fatal trenching injuries.
• Similarly, 90% of nonfatal trenching injuries from 2011 to 2022 occurred in the construction industry.
• In 2022, Hispanic workers were particularly impacted and comprised more than a third of all trenching and excavation fatalities.

Nonfatal trenching injuries in construction have fluctuated over the past decade:

• Injuries decreased by 42.9% from 2011-2012 to 2021-2022.
• The injury rate also declined by 57.1% during this period.
• However, a peak occurred in 2013-2014, with 600 nonfatal injuries.
• From 2021-2022, there were 200 nonfatal trenching injuries in construction.

How do trenching and excavation accidents happen?

Common causes of trenching and excavation accidents include:

• Cave-ins: These occur when the walls of a trench collapse due to a lack of proper shoring or support systems.
• Falls: Workers can fall into trenches or excavation sites if protective barriers and proper signage are not in place.
• Falling loads: Materials or equipment falling into the trench can strike and injure workers below.
• Hazardous atmospheres: The accumulation of toxic gases or the lack of oxygen in trenches can pose serious health risks to workers.
• Utility line strikes: Excavation can unintentionally damage underground utilities such as gas lines, leading to explosions or other hazardous conditions.
• Equipment accidents: Heavy machinery used in excavation can malfunction or be improperly operated.
• Flooding: Water accumulation from rain or broken pipes can lead to trench instability and drowning hazards.

What is OSHA’s enforcement of trenching standards?

OSHA has taken an active role in enforcing trenching safety standards. Trenching and excavation violations account for a significant portion of citations and penalties in the construction industry:

• In 2023, trenching violations comprised 9% of all penalties and 4% of all citations issued in construction.
• From 2011 to 2023, the average annual number of trenching citations was 2,200, representing 2.8% to 3.9% of all construction citations.
• After OSHA launched its National Emphasis Program on Trenching and Excavation in 2018, trenching citations increased by 36.8% in 2019.

The heavy and civil engineering construction subsector has been particularly impacted by OSHA enforcement:

• Between 2011 and 2023, 52% of trenching citations were issued to employers in this subsector.
• In comparison, only 8.1% of all construction citations during this period were issued to heavy and civil engineering construction firms.

The most frequently cited specific trenching standards include:

• Protections of employees in excavations (1926.652 A): 34.5% of trenching citations
• Specific excavation requirements; Inspections (1926.651 K): 17.1% of trenching citations
• Specific excavation requirements access and egress (1926.651 C): 16.8% of trenching citations

Trench Safety Stand Down raises awareness of trenching and excavation hazards

The Trench Safety Stand Down is an annual event in June that protects workers from trenching and excavation hazards. This year, it took on added significance in light of the alarming increase in trenching fatalities. The stand-down allows employers, supervisors, and workers to pause work and review best practices, safety protocols, and company policies related to trenching operations. This event aims to raise awareness of trench safety and foster a culture of prevention.

Get the workers’ comp benefits you deserve after a trenching or excavation accident

If you sustained injuries in a trenching accident or any other workplace incident in Massachusetts or Rhode Island, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, getting these benefits isn’t an easy process. It’s important to seek legal help from an experienced workers’ comp attorney to maximize your chances of getting compensated.

The attorneys at The Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl are ready to protect your rights as an injured worker. With our extensive knowledge of work comp law and OSHA regulations, we provide compassionate legal support and advocacy to help you secure the benefits and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you.

When PPE doesn’t fit right, it can do more harm than good. For women working in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, ill-fitting PPE is a common workplace hazard—especially on construction sites.

Ill-fitting safety equipment can do more harm than good

PPE, or Personal Protective Equipment, encompasses any specialized gear or attire utilized to safeguard individuals from potential hazards or risks in various environments. Examples of PPE include:

• Safety boots and shoes.
• Hard hats.
• Safety gloves.
• High-visibility clothing.
• Eye and ear protection.
• Aprons, trousers, and life jackets.
• Respirators.

In a recent survey of 100 women in construction, industry executives, and construction owners, almost 70 percent said that gender-friendly safety equipment is not available at construction sites. In addition, 85 percent said there is no maternity-friendly PPE at work sites. The survey highlights the pressing need to mitigate the heightened risk of injury faced by women in the construction industry.

Understanding the PPE gender gap

When the right PPE is not available to women, not only does it undermine their safety but also their comfort and productivity on the job. Improper PPE can cause injuries affecting women, such as:

• Respiratory-related injuries and disabilities.
• Overexertion, sprains, and strains.
• Wounds and bruises.
• Bone fractures.
• Eye injuries.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis.
• Burns.
• Respiratory system diseases.
• Skin disorders.

However, knowing the extent of the PPE problem or risk is difficult. Occasional studies shine a light on the issue. For example, one study found that women in the workplace report experiencing musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as neck and shoulder pain at a rate twice as high as men. Researchers said the disparity may stem from tasks requiring women to exert more muscle effort than men or ill-fitting PPE designed primarily for men.

A study from 1996 found that women in construction labor are twice as likely as men to be fatally injured in a motor vehicle accident. Across all industries, exposure, and events that were more likely to injure women than men included overexertion in lifting and repetitive motions, falls, and exposure to harmful substances.

We fight for injured women workers’ rights

With very few exceptions – and regardless of PPE availability – women injured on the job are entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and possibly more. Workers’ compensation and personal injury laws generally apply to all employees regardless of gender. In Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the process typically involves reporting the injury to the employer, seeking medical treatment, and filing a claim with the relevant workers’ compensation board or agency.

However, just as women encounter discrepancies in PPE, they can also be subject to injustices in pursuing injury compensation. We can help level the playing field. At The Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl, our workers’ compensation lawyers and work injury attorneys understand that your workplace injuries are serious and deserve maximum compensation.

If you were injured on the job at a Massachusetts or Rhode Island construction site or another type of workplace, contact us for a free case evaluation. We can explain your options for seeking lost wages and medical expenses and whether there is potential for Social Security Disability benefits and/or an injury claim or lawsuit against a third party like a subcontractor, defective parts manufacturer, or negligent driver. Contact us today so we can listen to what happened, hear what kind of injuries you’ve sustained, and explain how workers’ compensation attorney can help.

The use of your hands is crucial in performing daily job duties. Hand injuries account for a large number of upper-limb workplace injuries and workers’ compensation claims. Beyond physical pain, they impair work and daily activities and can cause financial and personal distress.

Common causes of work-related hand injuries

• Broken hands from falls or direct blows to the hand.
• Crush injuries due to hands being caught or compressed by heavy machinery.
• Hard arm vibration syndrome caused by prolonged use of vibrating tools, leading to numbness, pain, and muscle weakness.
• Nerve damage from repetitive movements or direct trauma.
• Burns from contact with hot surfaces, chemicals, or electricity.
• Sprains and strains that affect the tendons and ligaments, often due to overuse or trauma.

Can I claim for an injured hand at work?

You may be entitled to compensation when you suffer an injured hand at work. However, your hand injury must have happened within the scope of your employment. For example, it could have happened on a job site or while traveling as part of your job.

Understanding how to determine eligibility and what kind of proof you need is crucial for a successful claim. Proving that your hand injury is work-related is a key step in securing compensation. This involves compiling convincing medical evidence, gathering witness statements, and obtaining accident reports.

Here’s how to get started:

• Inform your employer that you suffered an injured hand on the job. Get a copy of the incident report as proof that the hand injury is job-related.
• Take pictures of the accident scene where you sustained your hand injury and get contact information of nearby witnesses.
• See a doctor as soon as possible and let them know that your hand injury happened at work. Also, get a copy of your medical diagnosis to link your injury to your job.
• Keep all medical bills, receipts, prescriptions, and appointment logs.
• File your claim with the Massachusetts or Rhode Island workers’ comp board. Your application must be accurate and complete. An experienced workers’ comp attorney can help you with this process.
• Get help from a lawyer knowledgeable in Massachusetts and Rhode Island workers’ comp law.

How much compensation will I get for a hand injury at work?

If you sustained a hand injury on the job, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Coverage for hospital and medical bills related to your hand injury, including surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages: Compensation for a portion of the wages lost due to your inability to work during recovery.
• Disability benefits: Payments for temporary or permanent disability, depending on the severity of your hand injury and its impact on your ability to work.
• Rehabilitation costs: Coverage for physical therapy and vocational rehabilitation to help you return to your job or transition to a new one.

By providing these benefits, workers’ compensation ensures that employees receive the necessary support and care following a workplace injury, while also protecting employers from potential lawsuits related to the incident.

Get legal help from a workers’ compensation attorney

If you’ve suffered a hand injury at work, the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl can help you recover both physically and financially. Our legal team is dedicated to representing injured workers in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Whether your injury is due to a construction accident or repetitive stress, we believe you deserve full compensation.

Our legal team can guide you through the claims process, maximize your benefits, and appeal any claim denials that arise. Let us fight for your rights and ensure you receive every penny you deserve. Contact us online or call us to set up your free initial consultation.

Every day, workers across Massachusetts and Rhode Island put their lives and health on the line to earn a living. When a serious accident occurs, the consequences can be devastating. We often hear about workers who lose their lives due to preventable accidents and work conditions. Even those who survive these accidents are out of work, collecting workers’ compensation benefits during a lengthy recovery.

Workers’ Memorial Day, observed on April 28th, was established to recognize workers who have lost their lives or suffered from work-related injuries and illnesses. It serves as a somber reminder of the importance of workplace safety and encourages us to consider ways we can all contribute to creating safer and healthier work environments.

How prevalent are worker fatalities and injuries?

In 2021, work-related injuries claimed the lives of 5,190 U.S. workers, an 8.9% increase from 2020. That’s a fatality rate of 3.6 per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers. While work-related injury fatalities are tracked by surveillance systems, most deaths resulting from work-related illnesses go unrecorded. Estimates suggest that in 2007, approximately 53,445 people died from work-related illnesses.

In 2021, employers reported around 2.6 million nonfatal injuries and illnesses to private industry workers through the annual Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses. Additionally, the annual burden of chronic occupational illness in the U.S. is estimated to be between 460,534 and 709,792 additional cases.

Common causes of workplace fatalities and injuries

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the most common causes of workplace fatalities and injuries in the United States in 2022 include:

• Transportation incidents (2,066 fatal injuries): These incidents can occur both on public roads and at the workplace and often involve vehicles such as cars, trucks, or forklifts.
• Falls, slips, and trips (865 fatal injuries): This includes falls from heights, slips on slippery surfaces, and trips over obstacles are significant contributors to workplace fatalities. These incidents can occur in a variety of work environments, from construction sites to office spaces.
• Violence and other injuries by persons or animals (849 fatal injuries): This includes homicides, assaults, and self-harm, as well as injuries caused by animals (e.g., attacks or bites).
• Exposure to harmful substances or environments (839 fatal injuries): This includes exposure to hazardous chemicals, gases, or other substances, as well as incidents involving extreme temperatures, oxygen deficiency, or other extreme environmental factors.
• Contact with objects and equipment (738 fatal injuries): This happens when workers are struck by, caught in, or crushed by objects or equipment in the workplace. Examples include being struck by a falling object, becoming entangled in machinery, or being caught between two moving objects.
• Fires and explosions (107 fatal injuries): Workplace fires and explosions can be caused by the ignition of flammable materials or an equipment malfunction.

What to do after a workplace accident

If you were injured or lost a loved one due to a workplace accident, you may be eligible for various workers’ compensation benefits, which can include:

• Medical costs for all reasonable and necessary expenses related to the work-related injury or illness, including hospital stays, doctor visits, rehabilitation, and prescription medications.
• Temporary Total Disability benefits, which provide a percentage of your average weekly wage while you are unable to work due to the injury.
• Temporary Partial Disability benefits, which provide a percentage of your wage difference if you can only work in a limited capacity due to the injury.
• Permanent Partial Disability benefits, which provide compensation for any permanent impairment resulting from the injury.
• Permanent Total Disability benefits, which provide ongoing wage replacement if the injury has rendered you permanently and totally disabled.
• Vocational benefits such as job retraining, job placement, and other services to help the injured worker return to work.

If you’re a dependent of a worker who dies due to a work-related injury or illness, you may be eligible for death benefits, which can include burial expenses and a percentage of the deceased worker’s average weekly wage.

Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system that provides benefits to injured workers or their families. The claims process can be confusing, especially if it’s your first time filing. To avoid any errors that could affect your compensation, speak to an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl. We can guide you through the application process and handle all aspects of your claim from start to finish. To learn more, contact us for a free consultation with one of our lawyers in Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

We often hear how distracted driving and other negligent behaviors lead to car accidents. In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 3,308 fatalities from traffic crashes involving distracted drivers in the United States. But these accidents don’t just affect commuters and travelers. Work-related transportation accidents are a common cause of workplace fatalities and workers’ comp claims.

This includes three main categories of distracted driving:

• Manual distractions occur when the driver takes one or both hands off the steering wheel to perform another task. Examples include handling a cell phone, adjusting the radio or GPS device, eating, or self-grooming.
• Visual distractions involve the driver taking their eyes off the road. This could happen while looking at a smartphone, reading a billboard, searching for items in the car, or even looking at passengers.
• Cognitive distractions occur when the driver’s mind is not focused on driving. This could be due to talking to other passengers, daydreaming, or being preoccupied with personal, family, or work-related issues.

How common are work-related transportation accidents?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, vehicle accidents are the primary cause of work-related fatalities in the United States. They account for nearly 40% of such deaths each year. These typically include commercial vehicle crashes, pedestrian accidents in work zones, public transportation accidents, and forklift accidents.

Distracted driving is a significant contributor to road fatalities, including those related to work. Other common causes of workplace transportation accidents include:

• Fatigue and drowsy driving.
• Speeding and aggressive driving.
• Lack of driver training.
• Poor vehicle maintenance.
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Safety advocates take action

In response to these alarming statistics, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Safety Council are organizing a panel discussion titled “Roadway Safety is Workplace Safety: The Need to Eliminate Distracted Driving.”

Since their inception, both the NSC and OSHA have collaborated with employers to enhance worker safety, including the prevention of work-related transportation accidents. That includes:

• Setting and enforcing safety standards that include regulations for vehicle operation and maintenance.
• Training programs and resources aimed at educating workers and employers about safe driving practices and the risks associated with workplace transportation.
• Developing and implementing workplace safety programs that include seat belt policies, fatigue management, and distracted driving policies.

Injured in a vehicle accident while on the job?

If you’re injured in a vehicle accident while on the job, you have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation can cover your medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation services, and long-term disability, depending on the nature of your work-related injuries. Unlike a personal injury claim, workers’ comp is a no-fault system, so you don’t have to prove negligence. You only have to prove that your injury was work-related and you’re classified as an employee.

If the transportation accident was caused by someone outside your workplace, you may have grounds for a third-party work injury claim. For example, if you were making a delivery or working along the side of the road and a distracted driver hit you, you may be able to sue that driver’s insurance company. Unlike workers’ compensation, a third-party claim would compensate you for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, and loss of consortium.

To see how we can help with your potential claim, contact an attorney at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl. We can answer any questions you have and help you explore your options further during a free consultation. We proudly serve injured workers in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) impair brain function and can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild TBIs, or concussions, may manifest as headaches, nausea, speech issues, and sensitivity to stimuli. Moderate to severe TBIs could lead to extended unconsciousness, severe headaches, confusion, seizures, and even coma. These injuries often occur in construction accidents.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TBIs cause 176 American deaths daily, with 64,000 fatalities in 2020. Between 2003-2010, the construction industry saw over 2,000 TBI deaths. This made up a quarter of construction fatalities and 24% of all occupational TBI deaths, according to NICOSH research.

What are the leading risks of brain injuries in construction?

In the construction industry, workers face heightened TBI risks due to falls from ladders, scaffolds, and roofs. Impacts with falling objects are also a leading cause of construction TBIs. A study from Injury Prevention in 2015 revealed that employees at smaller construction companies (with less than 20 workers) are 2.5 times more likely to experience fatal TBIs than those at larger firms. Workers in steel, structural iron, and roofing are especially at risk.

How can head injuries in construction be prevented?

Mitigating TBIs on construction sites requires rigorous safety protocols, conducting risk evaluations, and offering comprehensive training. Employers are required to ensure a safe working environment under Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.

For example, hard hats serve as a fundamental defense against head injuries and help protect against other numerous hazards. Neglecting to wear or using damaged hard hats increases injury risks. Employers must supply appropriate safety equipment and enforce the installation of guardrails and safety nets to minimize fall hazards.

NIOSH, OSHA, and The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) have collaboratively initiated a fall prevention campaign. This initiative aims to enhance safety for workers on roofs, ladders, and scaffolds. The campaign highlights the importance of using safety harnesses, guardrails, lifelines, and the rigorous inspection of fall protection equipment.

This initiative stresses choosing the right ladder, maintaining three points of contact, ensuring the ladder is secure, and always facing the ladder during use. Scaffold recommendations focus on using fully planked scaffolds, proper access, ensuring scaffolds are plumb and level, completing all guardrails, securing stable footing, and conducting thorough inspections before use.

What should I do after sustaining a TBI on the job?

After sustaining a TBI on a construction site, it’s crucial to get immediate medical attention and report the incident to your employer. No matter how minor or severe your TBI is, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability. The Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl is committed to helping injured workers get the benefits they deserve while they recover. We understand how complex filing a workers’ compensation claim is, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

We can ensure that your paperwork is properly filled out and filed. We’ll also advise you on the best practices for building a strong workers’ compensation claim and advocate for fair compensation on your behalf. Our law firm serves injured workers and their families across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. To learn how we can help you, contact us online or call us for a free consultation.

Ergonomic hazards don’t just exist in the office; they are a common risk faced by construction workers (and workers in other industries). Ergonomic injuries often impact joints, tendons, nerves, and muscles. These injuries develop gradually over time. For example, a worker who wears uncomfortable footwear may eventually develop long-term musculoskeletal disorders.

The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in construction highlights the importance of integrating ergonomic safety measures. This could safeguard against both immediate dangers and the cumulative impact of ergonomic hazards.

Work injuries from ergonomic hazards

Research by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics reveals that ergonomics-related injuries account for nearly one-third of all cases requiring days away from work. Workers’ compensation claims for musculoskeletal disorders cost U.S. employers over $20 billion annually. These injuries not only incur high costs but can also prolong recovery times and delay workers’ return to their jobs.

This issue is particularly widespread among electrical contractors. OSHA highlights the increased risk of ergonomic injuries within this group as the workforce ages and the range of work expands. Electrical contractors don’t just work in construction. Today, they also work in building maintenance and data or networking installation, areas where ergonomic hazards are prevalent.

Risk factors that contribute to ergonomic hazards in construction

The five key risk factors of ergonomic hazards in construction include:

1. High force: This involves tasks requiring substantial physical effort, such as lifting heavy objects or applying intense grip. High-force tasks increase physical demand and often lead to fatigue and injury to muscles or the skeletal system if repeated or prolonged.

2. Awkward and prolonged postures: Working in positions that significantly stray from a natural posture (e.g., bending, twisting, or reaching) poses ergonomic risks. Electrical contractors often operate in tight spaces or with hard-to-reach equipment, making them susceptible to injuries from awkward postures.

3. Repetition: Repeating the same movements over and over stresses the body. The level of stress is influenced by the number of repetitions, movement speed, muscles involved, and required force. Continuous repetition can result in fatigue and strain on muscles or tendons.

4. Contact stress: This arises when part of the body presses against a hard or sharp surface. Contact stress can cause undue pressure that can impede nerve function and blood circulation over time.

5. Hand-arm vibration: Exposure to vibrations from power tools or machinery can cause discomfort and increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders after prolonged use.

Mitigating risk factors

In construction, effectively managing ergonomic risks involves a careful balance between the workers’ capabilities and the job demands. Recognizing and mitigating risk factors through a comprehensive safety strategy can reduce ergonomic injuries among electrical contractors. This can be done by recognizing and addressing the above-mentioned risk factors.

Implementing effective controls is crucial to mitigating these ergonomic risk factors. For example, the use of mechanical aids such as forklifts is recommended to prevent awkward carrying positions and overexertion in material handling and heavy lifting. Additionally, it’s important to enforce proper lifting techniques through training and visible guidelines. Limits should be set for lifting (a maximum of 50 pounds) to avoid overloading.

Training sessions should highlight correct lifting methods and stress the importance of mechanical aids. Posting signs as constant reminders and designing a work schedule that allows for task rotation can also lead to a safer workplace.

Workers’ comp for ergonomic injuries

If you develop a musculoskeletal disorder or other injury linked to ergonomic hazards on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, navigating the workers’ comp process can be challenging, and if you’re not careful, you could lose out on the benefits you’re entitled to. As such, it’s in your interest to speak to an experienced attorney who can ensure that your claim is properly filed and help you get the full compensation you deserve.

The Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl serves injured workers throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. To find out how our dedicated work injury team can help you, contact us to schedule a free consultation. We have law offices in Fall River and Foxborough, MA, as well as Providence, RI.

Construction workers in New England face a wide range of risks and hazards every day on the job. In fact, 1 out of 5 workplace fatalities nationwide involve construction accidents, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

While there are many common causes of construction accidents in New England, many of them involve concrete and cement. So, what makes these materials so dangerous? Our legal team at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl in Massachusetts and Rhode Island explains.

Common construction injuries involving concrete and cement

Concrete and cement often cause serious injuries to construction workers due to the potentially hazardous components in both building materials. Such workplace injuries often include:

• Eye injuries due to cement or concrete coming into contact with a construction worker’s eye.
• Chemical burn injuries due to concrete or cement coming into direct contact with the skin.
• Respiratory injuries or illnesses, including asthma, due to inhaling hazardous materials often found in concrete or cement, including alkaline compounds such as lime (calcium oxide) and crystalline silica.
• Back injuries due to lifting or moving cement or concrete, which can be extremely heavy in solid form.
• Slip, trip, and fall injuries, especially if someone steps in wet concrete or cement.
• Machine-related injuries, such as broken bones caused by being struck by heavy equipment or power tools used while working with cement or concrete.
• Work-related injuries involving rebar, the sharp metal rods often pointing up out of concrete at construction sites.

Causes of accidents involving concrete

New England construction sites can be dangerous due to a wide range of hazards. This is why construction companies need to take steps to prevent injuries involving concrete or cement. Unfortunately, many construction companies don’t take the necessary precautions, resulting in a serious injury involving cement or concrete. Common causes of such injuries include:

• Failing to provide construction workers with safety equipment, such as protective eyewear, respirators, gloves, and sturdy boots that prevent cement from getting inside.
• Not training construction workers on how to safely use concrete or cement.
• No warning signs indicating that cement or concrete is being used at a construction site.
• Poor lighting or poor maintenance, resulting in someone tripping and falling over concrete or into wet cement.
• Failing to provide construction workers with mandatory rest breaks. This is especially important when working with cement or concrete since such work can often be physically exhausting.

What laws govern construction workers handling concrete or cement?

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), a federal agency, has many laws governing the use of concrete and cement at construction sites. These laws are designed to protect construction workers and prevent construction accidents involving cement or concrete. Such laws include:

• OSHA 1926 Subpart Q, which contains many rules and regulations for the use of concrete in masonry construction. Such rules include what tools or equipment must be used, as well as OSHA requirements involving precast concrete, lift slabs, and masonry construction.
• OSHA Standard 1926.701(f), which has specific guidelines for how cement can be applied if using a pneumatic hose. In such cases, construction workers must wear protective head and face equipment.
• OSHA Standard 1926.701(a), which has strict rules involving construction loads. Specifically, before placing any construction materials on concrete, the person responsible and qualified in structural design must verify that the concrete structure is capable of supporting the load.
• OSHA Standard 1926.701(e), which prevents supporters from working under loads of concrete buckets while they are being lowered or raised into position.

What should construction workers do after an accident?

Construction companies must respond immediately if an employee sustains an injury due to working with cement or concrete. While such steps will vary from one accident to another, common responses should include:

• Call 911 and ask for medical attention right away, especially if a construction worker sustains a potentially life-threatening injury involving cement or concrete.
• Stop work on the construction site, especially if other workers could be hurt while working with concrete or cement.
• Tell a supervisor right away that a construction accident occurred involving concrete or cement.
• Ensure that an ambulance or other emergency medical workers can easily access the construction site so there’s no time wasted treating the injured worker.
• Construction companies should carefully document what happened as soon as possible.
• OSHA should be notified as soon as possible. That way, OSHA can begin investigating the construction accident right away.

Contact a construction accident lawyer

Construction accidents involving cement and concrete in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and other New England states often result in serious injuries. As a result, injured construction workers might have difficulty getting the financial compensation and support they deserve. That’s because construction companies sometimes deny doing anything wrong because they don’t want to be held responsible for the worker’s injuries.

Whatever the circumstances of your work injury, an experienced construction accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl can help you fully understand your legal rights and the potential options available to you.

Make sure your construction injury gets the attention it deserves. Contact our law firm and schedule a free evaluation with a construction accident attorney focused on winning your case. We handle injury claims involving injured construction workers throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

One of the most common – and most serious – work-related injuries involves falling from a height. That’s why it’s critical that employers have a plan for when an employee falls and sustains an injury.

Our workers’ compensation attorneys at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl in Massachusetts and Rhode Island explain.

How common are falls from height?

Annually, about 46,000 workers sustain a work-related injury due to a fall to a lower level, according to workplace accident statistics compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and cited by the National Safety Council (NSC). Recent annual falls from height statistics include:

• 46,005 falls from height injuries in 2022.
• 49,250 work-related falls from height injuries in 2020.
• 48,040 injuries in 2019.
• 52,510 injuries in 2018.

As for fatalities due to falls from a height to a lower level, 700 workers died in 2022, along with 680 fatalities in 2021, according to the BLS.

Common injuries sustained in workplace falls

Certain injuries are more common than others when workers fall to a lower level. According to BLS data cited by the NSC, the most common falls from height injuries include:

• Muscle sprains and tears – 26 percent.
• Bone fractures – 23 percent.
• Bruises and contusions – 13 percent.

As for which part of the body is most often injured, such injuries often impact:

• Lower extremities – 35 percent.
• Upper extremities – 20 percent.
• Trunk, especially the back – 18 percent.

Falls from height causes

There are many reasons why fall accidents happen in workplaces. In many cases, falls to a lower level happen at work because an employer did not take the necessary precautions. Examples include:

• Poor maintenance.
• Lack of safety protocols, especially those involving scaffolding.
• Failure to provide employees with safety equipment, such as safety harnesses or other personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) for employees working on scaffolding.
• Unmarked hazards that cause employees to trip and fall.
• Lack of safety training.

What laws govern workplace falls?

Many laws were created to protect workers and prevent falls from height. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), a federal agency, created many of these laws, including:

• OSHA General Industry Standard 1910.140, which states that employers must provide personal protective equipment and rescue workers in a timely manner in the event of a fall.
• OSHA Construction Standard 1926.502, which includes rules and regulations governing guardrails and safety nets at work sites, along with rescue procedures.
• OSHA General Industry Standard 1910.29, which states that employers must provide “fall protection system and falling object protection” to any employee whose job involves working from a height.

What should employers do after a fall from height?

Employers need to have a plan in place for how to respond to a workplace fall. Such plans will vary from one profession to another but often include:

• Posted materials at work sites explaining exactly what workers should do in the event of a fall at work.
• Employee training that explains such protocols in detail so no time is wasted after a fall from a height accident.
• Provide regular practice training to workers so they know how they should respond to such situations so all employees know exactly what to do after a fall from height injury.

In general, accident response plans often include the following steps:

• Call 911 immediately.
• Do not move the injured worker.
• Notify a supervisor that a fall from a height accident has occurred.
• Make sure emergency medical workers can access the injured worker as soon as possible.

Seeking legal help for a work-related fall

Work-related injuries involving falls from height in Massachusetts and Rhode Island often quickly turn into complicated legal cases. This is why it’s important for injured workers to fully understand their legal rights. Otherwise, they might not receive the benefits they deserve.

If you or a loved one was injured in a fall from a height at work, an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer at the Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl can help you every step of the way. We know the rules and regulations that apply to such accidents. We understand how the workers’ compensation system works in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. That’s why we have such a strong track record of success.

Get the personal attention you deserve after your workplace injury. Contact us and schedule a free evaluation with a workers’ compensation attorney focused on your best interests. We can review your case, explain your options, and get right to work on your workers’ compensation claim.