Twice as many claims made for back injuries
A report in the US has confirmed that back injury
work accident claims are on the rise. Data from the US National Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that work injuries occur in 6.3 cases per 100 full-time employees and the majority of these employees suffer back injuries.
The study blames hazardous working environments such as: iron working, masonry and welding environments for the injuries and says more should be done to ensure worker safety.
The study also says that workers are far more likely to recover fully and more quickly if they receive treatment immediately after the accident occurs. However, it was found that: “less than 17% of injured workers are referred to rehabilitation within seven months.” And “approximately 50% wait three years before they are referred.”
According to a recent press release by Transplex: “Work injuries range from improper lifting, falling, sitting improperly, repetitive stress or other traumas. Back injuries are the number one work-related injury in the United States.” Approximately 85,000 people suffer an accident at work each year in Pennsylvania.
Updated on 16/05/2008