Ironworkers are the backbone of the construction industry, erecting the skeletons of buildings and bridges that shape the skylines. Yet, with this essential work comes a heightened risk of workplace injuries.
You can face many potential types of injury risks as an ironworker. What are these risks, and can workers’ compensation help should you get injured?
Common injuries in ironworking
The demanding nature of ironwork leads to a variety of injuries. Falls from significant heights are one of the most severe risks, potentially resulting in fractures, head injuries, or even fatalities.
Ironworkers also go through repetitive motions in their daily tasks; this makes them vulnerable to repetitive strain injuries such as tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Cuts and lacerations from working with sharp materials and thermal burns from welding and cutting operations are other common injuries.
Workers’ compensation can cover the medical costs to treat these injuries. In addition, wounded workers may also receive benefits for lost wages and disability, if their injuries prevent them from returning to work immediately.
Eligibility for workers’ comp
For an injury to be eligible for workers’ comp coverage, it has to be a direct result of employment activities or within the employment environment.
Note that workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. Even if the injury resulted from a worker’s mistake, they would still be eligible for benefits. However, injuries incurred because the worker was intoxicated or committed a felony are not covered.
Workers’ compensation can provide benefits to ironworkers injured on the job. However, your claim must first secure approval from a claims administrator before payment. An attorney with workers’ comp experience can help you file your claims, advise you on the benefits available, and help appeal denied claims.