Workplace Injuries in the Carpet Industry

Though it may not seem like a high-risk industry, there are several common injuries carpet industry workers may experience.

When most people think about dangerous jobs, they may imagine construction workers or police officers. However, many dangers come with working in other industries, such as the carpet industry. In fact, this industry has one of the highest rates of workplace injuries.

There are several unique injuries that carpet workers may face.

a Missouri worker laying carpet

7 Common Injuries in the Carpet Industry

Carpet Weaver’s Lung

This is a type of allergic alveolitis, an inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs. This condition is caused by exposure to dust from natural fibers like wool or cotton. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Prolonged exposure to these fibers can lead to scarring of the lungs and, in severe cases, death.

Knee Injuries

You probably guessed it – this type of repetitive strain injury can be caused by kneeling for long periods while installing carpet. The symptoms include pain and swelling in the knee, which can often make it difficult to walk or stand for long periods. In severe cases, it can also lead to arthritis.

Shoulder Injuries

This is another repetitive motion injury caused by the repeated pushing and pulling motions used to tuft carpet. Symptoms include pain and swelling in the shoulder and weakness and numbness in the arm. This injury can often be debilitating, making it hard to perform everyday tasks.

Wrist Injuries

This is yet another repetitive motion injury caused by the constant cutting and measuring of carpet during installation. The symptoms include pain and swelling in the wrist and numbness and tingling in the hand. This injury can make it difficult to grip tools or perform other manual tasks.

Back Injuries

This is a common injury in any job that involves lifting heavy objects, but it is especially common among carpet installers. The symptoms include pain and stiffness in the lower back and difficulty walking or standing. This injury can often be debilitating, making it hard to perform everyday tasks.

 Carpet Tuner’s Wart

Like many other jobs that involve exposure to chemicals, working in the carpet industry can lead to skin problems. One of the most common is “carpet tuner’s wart,” which is caused by exposure to the chemical benzene. Symptoms include a rash or bumps on the skin and itching and burning. In severe cases, it can lead to permanent scarring.

Carpet Burn

You know that feeling when you accidentally rub your skin against a rough surface and get a carpet burn? Well, for carpet workers, this is an everyday hazard. Carpet burns can be caused by many things, including exposure to chemicals, friction from tools, or contact with hot surfaces. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain. In severe cases, it can lead to permanent scarring.

Have You Been Injured While Working in the Carpet Industry?

 If you’ve been injured while working in the carpet industry, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. This can help cover the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and other expenses. At The Law Offices of James. M. Hoffmann we have over 30 years of experience protecting the rights of injured Missouri workers and can do the same for you. Contact our St. Louis work injury lawyer today for a free consultation.

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Updated: October 14, 2022