Many companies have begun to realize the impact repetitive motions have on individuals. Doing the same task day in and day out can have a profoundly negative impact on the human body. Even sitting the wrong way for hours can result in health problems. Tesla recently fell into some trouble when it failed to report repetitive motion injuries its employees had sustained.
Many employees worry about whether they can prove an injury occurred as a result of months or years of performing the same motion.
Common repetitive motion injuries
Certain injuries are more likely to occur as a result of performing the same basic routine every day. They include the following:
- Muscle strains
- Lower back injuries
- Epicondylitis
- Rotator cuff strains
- Trigger finger
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendinitis
These injuries can become so severe the employee needs to take time off work. The employee can receive compensation for lost wages by submitting a workers’ compensation claim.
Signs the injury occurred as a result of work-related stress
An injury coupled with specific tasks performed frequently on the job provide credence to the belief the employee should receive damages for a work-related injury. For example, if an employer requires workers to sit or stand for hours at a time, then a claim may be in the cards. Nature did not create the human body to remain in the same position for hours on end, which means cashiers who need to stand for three or four hours may have a claim.
Additionally, employees may have a claim if an employer did not provide them with the necessary training or equipment to do their job safely. For example, office workers have a right to comfortable, ergonomic chairs that help combat lower back problems. In the event an employer does not provide reasonable accommodation, then workers can submit a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
