Do you work in Arizona? If so, you should know about the workplace injury coverage offered under Arizona workers’ compensation insurance. Although no job is risk-free, having the right insurance can help protect your employees and ensure those injured receive treatment and compensation for lost wages. Knowing what types of injuries are covered under workers comp in Arizona can help employers understand their insurance policies and ensure they’re adequately prepared for workplace accidents.
In this blog post, we’ll explore five common injuries that fall under workers comp in Arizona and explain why it is essential for employers to carry a comprehensive safety program and workers’ compensation plan. Learn more about how protecting your workforce can benefit everyone involved.
1. Occupational Injuries
Sprains, Strains, Tears, Cuts, and Lacerations are common workplace injuries caused by improperly lifting heavy objects or misusing machinery. If a worker experiences any muscle pain or discomfort due to the job, it should be reported as soon as possible so that it can be monitored and treated effectively.
Cuts and lacerations are some of the peskiest injuries a worker can face, and they happen all too frequently in Arizona. They’re typical for workers’ comp claims because of the diverse industries thriving here, from construction to food service.
With so many hardworking Arizonians welding tools, knives, sharp edges, or other hazardous objects that can easily cause such injuries, it’s not surprising that we see increased claims related to these incidents.
Furthermore, the desert climate can make the skin more prone to damage due to the dryness we constantly face. With such an integrated network of risk factors, proper safety measures are crucial in preventing these severe injuries. And when accidents do happen, victims must have access to Arizona workers comp insurance to get them the help they need.
2. Repetitive Motion Injuries
This injury often occurs when a worker repeatedly engages in the same motions without rest or proper training on doing the job safely. A repetitive motion injury can cause pain and discomfort in the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, neck, back, hips, knees, ankles, or feet, depending on which muscle group the repetitive activity affects.
3. Slip and Fall and broken Bones Accidents
If not appropriately treated, slipping or tripping on an uneven surface can cause serious injuries such as broken bones or concussions. Employers need to make sure that their premises are properly maintained to minimize the risk of slip and fall accidents occurring in the workplace.
Did you know that broken bones are some of Arizona’s most common injuries that fall under Arizona workers comp insurance? With the state’s thriving construction and outdoor industries, workers are constantly exposed to situations that put them at a higher risk of sustaining fractures from falls, heavy equipment accidents, or even repetitive stress. Plus, let’s remember thousands of cacti dispersed across the region, which can, unfortunately, cause puncture injuries leading to bone breaks.
That’s why the Grand Canyon State has robust workers’ compensation laws, ensuring employees receive proper medical care and support when such mishaps occur. So, remember, while Arizona is known for its relentless sunshine, it’s also high time to pay attention to workplace safety to keep those bones intact.
4. Burns & Scalds
Burns from heat sources such as fire, hot liquids, steam, and metals can happen anytime, especially when working with hazardous materials like chemicals or electricity. Safety protocols must always be followed if necessary; precautions are not taken.
This kind of accident can occur, causing severe injury, including scarring and disfigurement, which will require extensive medical treatment and recovery time, taking away from work income and productivity loss. This type of incident falls under Arizona workers comp insurance.
5. Injury from Exposure to Toxic Substances & Chemicals
Exposure to toxic substances such as asbestos fibers, dust, lead mercury, etc., can cause respiratory illnesses, cancer, skin irritation, eye irritation, and many other health issues.
This type of accident also falls under Arizona workers comp insurance coverage. However, it requires extensive medical care and treatments, which may take months, even years, before full recovery occurs. Due to this incident, employers may incur high costs for employee rehabilitation. Therefore, employers must have adequate Arizona workers comp insurance coverage when operating a business.
5 Common Injuries That Fall Under Workers Comp in Arizona – In Summary
When considering Arizona workers comp insurance for your business, you must know what types of injuries are covered to prepare for workplace accidents adequately.
By understanding these five common injuries that fall under workers comp in Arizona, occupational injuries, repetitive motion injuries, slip and fall accidents, burns, scalds, and exposure to toxic substances, you’ll be ready to handle any unexpected circumstances that arise from an injured employee quickly and efficiently with the minimal financial burden on your organization.
Also read: 5 Immediate Steps to Take After a Slip-and-Fall Accident
