A lot of people think that workplace injuries can only happen in industrial environments. But, did you know that even employees in retail environments can also get injured? Just like injuries sustained in other work environments, retail-related injuries can make it difficult or even impossible for you to work again, depending on the severity of your injury. Also, any injury is accompanied by discomfort and pain that can affect your quality of life. Treatment for your injury can be costly and your insurance coverage may not be enough to cover it. That is why you may want to file a workers’ compensation claim to get the benefits you need. A Spokane personal injury attorney can help you receive the right amount of compensation you will need for your injury. The following are injuries you may sustain in a retail environment:
Slip and Fall Injuries
As a retail worker, you may be on your feet as you walk through different areas of a shop. Also, your retail location may have some objects on the ground, especially products. Such factors make the retail setting prone to falls. Falls can lead to bruises bone breaks, and cuts. You can avoid slip and fall injuries by ensuring you pay attention to what’s in front of you when you walk. To make this happen, always resist distraction.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
These injuries occur after you perform the same action again and again. The retail worker who usually suffers from a repetitive stress injury is a cash register because moving their hand the same way every day can result in unnatural strain. In addition, repetitive motion can cause different damages such as carpal tunnel. Also, standing for hours every day can lead to prolonged lower-body muscle fatigue that can cause leg cramps and backaches.
Machinery Complications
These complications usually cause bone breaks, cuts, and bruising. Although some positions are not exposed to these risks, other retail employees come into contact with heavy equipment. Each of these machines poses an injury risk. You can avoid it by adhering to safety guidelines and always staying alert.
Musculoskeletal Injuries
These retail-related injuries result from lifting bulky or heavy things or the use of improper lifting techniques. These injuries are common in service stations and convenience stores. Typically, these injuries affect the back, arms, shoulders, and hands, leading to painful inflammation.
If you have been injured on the job, you must hire a lawyer to represent you when you file a workers’ compensation claim. Your attorney will help fight for the compensation you need and deserve.
