There are many situations when one of your business’s employees might get hurt on the job. However, sometimes, these injuries don’t occur in a sudden accident. Some injuries might arise in the form of chronic illnesses or disabilities brought on by years of exposure to risky working conditions. Even when you observe safety precautions, employees still might sustain harm from long-term hazard exposure. As a result, however, the employee might qualify for workers’ compensation. It is important to understand why this might be the case.

Long-Term Injuries and Workers’ Compensation

Employees in almost any industry face injury risks every time they go to work. Not only can injury risks beckon suddenly, but they might also build up over long periods. Years of doing the same job in the same way might eventually take its toll. Some of the injuries that might arise include:

• Chronic/Toxic Exposure Injuries

Someone might work in an environment where they routinely encounter hazardous conditions. Exposures to heat, chemicals, smoke, radiation and other hazardous materials might eventually cause chronic illness or disabilities. Because this damage occurred as a result of the employee’s work, the employer might have to assist them with workers’ compensation.

• Repetitive Motion Injuries

Simply doing the same thing year over year might eventually cause someone harm. Repetitive motion injuries occur when years of the same movements or activities cause physical damage. A common example of a repetitive motion injury is carpal tunnel syndrome, brought on by frequent use of the hands and fingers, such as through typing.

When chronic exposure or repetitive motion injuries occur, an employee’s ability to work might diminish. As a result, they might face income insecurity. Workers’ compensation helps them receive assistance during these times of hardship. It can provide help during the employee’s recovery or disability period. That way, they can continue to live securely.

Workers’ Compensation Claims for Chronic Illnesses

Many employers worry when an employee makes a claim for workers’ compensation due to repetitive motion injuries or chronic exposure. They might feel that the employee is trying to make an easy claim for harm that didn't occur on the job. However, rest assured workers’ compensation policies require employees to verify their injuries. The employee will receive medical care that both confirms the extent of their injuries and links those injuries to their duties. Only after that verification can the employee receive workers’ compensation.

If you are curious about the hazardous exposures your employees face, then work with a risk management team to determine where you can make improvements to keep employees safe. Then, work with your workers’ compensation insurer to understand where you have coverage.

Also Read: Who Is Protected By Workers Compensation Insurance?

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