In the past few months, the number of remote workers across the globe has skyrocketed. In order to help slow the spread of COVID 19, many employees are now working from home. While this does have its upside (no commute, more family time), spending hours a day at makeshift workstations threatens employee health and productivity. Improper ergonomics lead to neck and back injuries, which can become severe enough to require days off work to seek medical attention. Fortunately, the workers’ compensation system covers remote workers for ergonomic injuries sustained on the job. workers comp for remote employees
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WHAT IS ERGONOMICS?
Ergonomics focuses on the relationship between a person and their work environment. Workplace design, tools used, and work routines all have an impact on ergonomics, which uses the principles of health and safety to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2018, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) accounted for over 30% of worker injury and illness cases involving days away from work (DAFW). Examples of MSDs include:
- Pinched nerve
- Herniated disc
- Meniscus tear
- Sprains, strains, tears
- Hernia
- Pain, swelling, numbness
- Carpal or tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Raynaud’s syndrome or phenomenon
- Other musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases and disorders resulting from overexertion or repetitive motion
Employers can help prevent these types of work injuries by taking an ergonomic approach to worker health and safety. Ergonomic hazards in the environment increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, and employers can help minimize these hazards by:
- Furnishing workstations with adjustable desks and chairs to fit individual workers
- Redesigning workstations to eliminate awkward and unnecessary postures or twisting and reaching motions
- Providing fatigue mats for standing workstations
- Implementing roller systems to reduce heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling
Every workplace is different, and taking an ergonomic approach requires a full ergonomic analysis of workplace design and processes. Even though employees are working remotely, this does not absolve employers of the responsibility for providing a safe work environment.
ERGONOMICS, REMOTE WORK, AND WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace, and this includes implementing ergonomic principles that help keep workers injury-free. Most office environments are created with this in mind, but the pandemic sent millions of workers home to perform their job duties in less-than-ergonomic environments. Hunched over laptops at low kitchen tables, on couches, or cross-legged on the floor for long periods of time, many workers are experiencing back and neck pain and other musculoskeletal issues, some for the first time in their lives.
Workers’ compensation covers employees for work-related injuries that take place on the job, whether the employee is working on location, out in the field, or at home. For example, if a worker is injured in a car accident while making a work delivery or a field call, that worker is covered within the workers’ compensation system for expenses related to the injury. Similarly, if a worker develops a back injury from improper ergonomics while carrying out job-related duties from home, he or she is entitled to compensation for medical care, lost wages, and other costs related to the injury.
Proving a musculoskeletal injury is work-related can be difficult, but having a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney on your side can make all the difference. The right attorney will be able to establish the important factors that solidify your case so you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
BACK PAIN OR NECK PAIN FROM REMOTE WORKING?
These are strange times, and we’ve all had to adjust to the changes, but it’s important to remember that your employer is still responsible for helping to keep you safe and healthy on the job. If you’ve suffered a work-related injury from improper ergonomics, give us a call at (619) 544-1506 to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced workers’ comp lawyers today.