A Profile of Injuries and Illnesses Sustained by Waste Collectors

Waste collectors who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses are entitled to benefits under the Missouri Workers’ Comp Law. The benefits include disability benefits, lost wages, and death benefits.

Waste collection is one of the most challenging and most demanding occupations in the country. This job is chock-full of unique hazards that increase the risk for on-the-job injuries and death. Below we highlight some of the most common injuries and illnesses experienced by waste collectors in Missouri.

Common Injuries Among Waste Collectors in Missouri

1. Infections

It should come as no surprise that there’s always a risk of infections in an occupation involving waste management. First responders are in frequent contact with broken glasses and sharp objects, which increases the risk of sustaining severe cuts, which increase their risk of contracting infectious diseases.

Waste collection also involves numerous social contacts, which places workers at greater risk of exposure to COVID-19.

2. Musculoskeletal Injuries

Waste collection involves a wide range of physical activities, including lifting, carrying, pulling, and pushing; performing these activities without proper techniques can result in severe sprains and strains of the muscles. This can also lead to rotator cuff injuries, epicondylitis, bone fractures, tendonitis, etc. – these conditions are known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).

Proper training can help equip waste collectors with the right skills and techniques and hopefully help prevent musculoskeletal disorders and other muscle-related injuries.

3. Lacerations

The highly physical nature of the waste collection also increases the risk for cuts and lacerations. Waste collectors get these injuries in various ways, such as falling while jumping on the garbage truck, improper ladder use, and handling garbage without hand gloves and proper protection wear.

These injuries can be prevented or reduced by adopting structured safety training to help keep waste collectors updated on the most recent waste management safety measures.

4. Complications Due to Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals

Waste collectors also handle toxic materials daily, which puts them at undue risk of developing skin issues, lung problems, poisoning, and more. Some of the most common toxic materials waste collectors are exposed to include pesticides, bleach, battery acid, asbestos, radioactive materials, and more.

Workers’ Comp for Waste Collectors

The good news is waste collectors who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses are entitled to benefits under the Missouri Workers’ Comp Law. The benefits include disability benefits, lost wages, and death benefits.

However, sustaining an injury while at work doesn’t mean you’ll automatically qualify for workers’ comp benefits. No! You’ll be required to provide evidence to prove your injury is work-related as well as demonstrate beyond reasonable doubt that your injury claim has merit.

That’s where a workers’ comp attorney will come in handy. An attorney will help you collect evidence to prove your injury/illness is work-related, calculate the value of your claim, file a workers’ comp claim, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.

The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann Is Here To Help

Were you injured at work? Contact the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann right away. If you have a valid injury claim, we’ll work hard to protect your rights and interests and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.