In San Diego and across California, people who are injured on the job will need to deal with a litany of issues including medical costs, lost income and concerns about what the future will hold. Those who work in industrial jobs and factories are especially at risk. Warehouse workers must navigate their space, be aware of heavy machinery, watch for falling items and be cognizant of their surroundings all while doing their jobs. Workers at companies that place a premium on efficiency are especially challenging in terms of safety. For those who are injured, knowing their rights to workers’ compensation and other benefits is imperative.
Amazon’s rate of injuries far surpasses those at other warehouses
A recent report found that workers in warehouses for Amazon had almost double the chance of a serious injury than other companies’ warehouses. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued its data showing these worrisome numbers. The data was analyzed and from 2017 through 2020, there were nearly six worker injuries that were classified as “serious” for every 100 workers who worked full-time over one year. Other warehouses had 3.3 such injuries. The biggest competitor Amazon has – Walmart – had 2.5 injuries in that same metric.
Amazon has improved its safety since 2019 when there were 7.7 serious injuries for every 100 workers. This happened while Amazon is experiencing a boom because of the ongoing societal issue in which a growing number of people are shopping from home and having their purchases delivered. It is believed that the hard-charging atmosphere at Amazon warehouses contributes to the higher rate of injuries. The company is demanding in its attempts at efficiency and customer satisfaction. That has led to complaints about its workplace culture and care for employees.
With workplace injuries, assistance in seeking benefits may be essential
Those who work for Amazon and people who work in warehouse jobs for other companies should pay attention to the types of workplace accidents that tend to occur, the injuries workers suffer and the long-term impact it has on them personally, medically and financially. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits are available. After being injured, there are key factors to consider such as how to file a claim, gathering evidence, getting proper medical treatment, being accurately evaluated and being legally protected. To make sure there is a good chance at being approved for benefits, having professional advice is a wise first step.