Common Work Injuries in the Restaurant Industry & How to Receive Compensation
by
James M. Hoffmann on Oct. 02, 2019
Employment Workers' Compensation Accident & Injury Accident & Injury Personal Injury
Summary: Let’s see what are the most common causes of injuries in the restaurant business and what you can do to get workers compensation.
Getting hurt at work while doing your job, can happen to anyone, no matter what industry they work in, but restaurants are some of the most prone to having employees involved in accidents and suffering damage. Let’s see what are the most common causes of injuries in the restaurant business and what you can do to get workers compensation.
Cuts
Chefs and other employees are exposed to sharp knives, cutlery, and breakable dishes on a daily basis. When accidents do happen, they can be very bloody, and even result in the loss of fingers or serious injuries. A busy kitchen where everyone is frantically going in all directions in a very tight space is a common ground for accidents.
Slips and Falls
Other types of accidents that can affect both the staff and the customers are slips and falls. It is not uncommon for food or drinks to be spilled in a restaurant, and wet floors are a major danger for the employees. Falls can result in broken bones, bruising, cuts, TBI (traumatic brain injuries) and other injuries.
Burns
Working around a stove and moving food in a crowded kitchen can easily lead to burns, from mild and superficial ones to very serious third or fourth-degree burns. Workers should report any mild burn and treat it, as they can lead to infections and other complications.
Repetitive Movements
Not less frequent than the injuries mentioned above are long-term injuries related to repetitive movements and uncomfortable positions. For workers who have to move in a tight space and stand for long hours at a time, joint pain and stuck muscles are common. If you start noticing pain that appears when you are working, get it checked and you can file for workers comp for occupational injuries.
Violence from Customers
This is a common occurrence in the restaurant business and, in general, in industries where the staff is dealing in person with a large number of customers. Many times clients can become aggressive and assault restaurant employees, which will be considered a risk related to the workplace.
What to Do If You Get Hurt at Work
If you have any incident at work while performing your work duties, report it to a superior right away and go to the doctor as soon as possible to get it checked. If your injuries are preventing you from working or making you less productive, hiring a St. Louis workers comp lawyer will help you build your case to get compensation for all the expenses caused by your injuries.
In Missouri, the workers' comp is a no-fault system. Discuss the specifics of your case with an experienced workers compensation attorney.
