Pennsylvania – Concussions in the workplace
Brain injuries are serious problems, and they don’t just come from sports. More and more of these injuries are coming from workplace accidents, where construction workers and others who have dangerous jobs are experiencing concussions that can be very damaging to the brain. One of the reasons that more concussions are being reported in the workplace could be due to the number of sports concussions that are being mentioned. New light is being shed on the seriousness of the issue and the warning signs, making everyone-including workers-more aware.
A Concussion Can Show Up Later
The symptoms of a concussion may appear right away, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes it takes a little bit longer for problems to appear, and when that’s the case people may not recognize what caused the issue. Workers who have any type of head injury should make sure they report it, and that they watch for problems that could come from that injury over the next few days or weeks. If they sustain concussions frequently, that can lead to long-term issues that may not be reversible, so it is important to avoid head and brain injuries whenever possible.
Most Concussions Are Preventable
The majority of concussions can be prevented, simply by using the right tools and techniques for the job being performed. For example, hard hats and other types of protective gear are often needed around construction sites. In addition to wearing appropriate safety gear, understanding the true nature of the job and the dangers connected with it can help workers find ways to reduce their risk. If they have proper training and knowledge, there will generally be fewer concussions and brain injuries, along with a reduced number of other types of injuries, as well.
Limited Work Schedules May Be Necessary After Injury
If you’ve suffered a brain injury, you may need to work on a reduced or limited schedule for days, weeks, or even months. That can depend on the severity of the injury, and whether you have restrictions on your working ability that have been placed there by your doctor for your safety. A concussion can be mild or severe, and depending on if it’s your first one or you’ve had one before, how it’s treated and what you can and should do afterward can vary considerably. If you find yourself in this situation you may find it beneficial to work with a workers’ compensation lawyer to secure the benefits to which you are entitled.
