Electrician Injuries in Workers’ Compensation

Electrician Injuries in Workers’ Compensation

Electricians face unique risks and challenges in the workplace that can lead to injury. In the state of Pennsylvania, these injuries are covered by the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, which requires all employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to protect their employees. Here, we’ll discuss some of the occupational injuries that can affect electricians and what to do if you’ve been injured on the job.

What kinds of work injuries affect electricians?

Electrocution: One of the most significant dangers that electricians face is the risk of electric shock. This can be caused by things like live wires, faulty equipment, or improper grounding. The severity of an electrocution injury can vary from minor pain and discomfort all the way up to death. Injuries can include burns, neurological issues, and cardiac arrest. Electric shock can cause long-term issues such as memory loss and chronic pain that can impact one’s ability to work and live as they once did. 

Falls: Electricians often work at heights, such as on rooftops or ladders to access wires. Proper usage of ladders and protective equipment can prevent and reduce the severity of these injuries, but of course accidents do still happen. Injuries from a fall can include broken bones, lacerations, paralysis, concussion and head trauma, and in the most severe cases, death. 

Burns: Electrical fires or electrocutions can cause burns that can be severe. Depending on the degree of the burn, these can require specialized care. Skin grafts, where a piece of healthy skin is surgically relocated to aid in the healing of the burn, can be necessary in situations where a burn has penetrated deep into the skin.

Repetitive strain injuries: Repetitive strain injuries can occur in almost any profession. They occur when tendons, muscles, or nerves are repeatedly used in the same way over time. This repeated pressure and wear can cause damage to these tissues, including conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and other median nerve compression injuries. Repetitive strains can occur in electricians from the complex hand motions required to manipulate wiring or from the use of tools. 

What causes these injuries and how can they be prevented?

Equipment malfunction: Equipment malfunctions can cause a broad range of injuries, depending on the type of equipment that was being used. A faulty ladder can cause a fall, bad wiring can cause electrocution, or malfunctioning tools can cause injuries like lacerations. To prevent equipment malfunction, it is crucial to check that all equipment is running properly before use. Regular maintenance and safety checks are some of the best ways to prevent these kinds of injuries. 

Improper safety gear: Safety equipment is created to keep the user safe and protected, but these items only function when used properly and kept in working condition. Ill-fitting or damaged helmets can cause serious head injuries in the event of an accident. A worn-out pair of gloves can expose hands to dangers such as burns and electrical shocks. Improper footwear can lead to lacerations or crush injuries to the foot. It is so important not only to wear all of the proper safety gear necessary for the job, but also to make sure that gear is worn properly and is in good condition.

Strain and overexertion: Many preventable injuries occur due to overexertion in the workplace. This can include things like heat related injuries, muscle strains and tears, or other tissue damage. These injuries can be prevented by following safety standards like proper lifting techniques and adequate hydration and break times. Always take breaks as required and be sure to inform a supervisor if any symptoms of overexertion should arise. 

Conclusion

Work injuries can happen in any profession, but as an electrician, it is important to be aware of the specific risks in that workplace. By using proper safety precautions and wearing adequate protective equipment, you can do your part to prevent these types of injuries. However, accidents still happen. If you or a loved one experiences an injury in the workplace, please contact our office. We’ve been handling these types of cases for over 35 years, and have the experience you need on your side to get the results you deserve.