Repetitive motion injuries and occupational diseases are common workplace injuries that can result in debilitating physical conditions for employees. In California, employers have a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees, including protecting them from exposure to hazards that can cause occupational illnesses and injuries.
Here’s what you need to know about repetitive motion injuries and occupational diseases in the workplace.
What Are Repetitive Motion Injuries?
Repetitive motion injuries, otherwise called repetitive strain injuries, transpire when a worker repeats the same motion frequently, resulting in harm to the nerves, tendons, and muscles. These injuries are frequently observed in occupations that demand repetitive movements, like assembly line work, tool usage, and typing.
Repetitive motion injuries can be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms may develop gradually over time. Some common symptoms of repetitive motion injuries include pain, swelling, stiffness, numbness, and tingling.
What Are Occupational Diseases?
Occupational diseases refer to health conditions or illnesses that result from exposure to workplace hazards. These hazards may involve exposure to noise, infectious diseases, radiation, or toxic chemicals. The spectrum of occupational diseases may range from mild conditions, such as skin irritation, to severe illnesses like cancer.
Employers are legally bound to ensure the safety of their employees by protecting them against exposure to hazardous materials and conditions at the workplace. This obligation includes measures such as the provision of protective gear, the implementation of safety protocols, and the monitoring of employees for signs of illness or injury.
Common Repetitive Motion Injuries and Occupational Diseases
Some common examples of repetitive motion injuries and occupational diseases include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a repetitive motion injury that occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed at the wrist.
- Tendinitis: This is a repetitive motion injury that occurs when tendons become inflamed and swollen due to overuse.
- Hearing Loss: This is an occupational disease that can be caused by exposure to loud noises in the workplace.
- Asbestosis: This is an occupational disease that is caused by exposure to asbestos.
- Mesothelioma: This rare form of cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos.
Protecting Your Rights
If you have been diagnosed with a repetitive motion injury or occupational disease, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which can help cover medical expenses and lost wages. Additionally, you may be able to file a lawsuit against your employer if they failed to provide a safe work environment or if they knowingly exposed you to hazardous conditions.
It’s important to speak with an experienced employment law attorney to learn more about your legal options. An attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact PLBH today for a free legal consultation at (800) 435-7542. Our attorneys have extensive experience representing clients with repetitive motion injuries and occupational diseases, and we are dedicated to protecting the rights of California workers.