Traumatic Brain Injuries in the Workplace
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a leading cause of disability and death in the United States of America. A TBI occurs when a person suffers a violent blow or jolt to the head or when something penetrates the brain tissue. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2021 alone, there were more than 69,000 TBI-related deaths in the U.S. That means that in 2021, approximately 190 people died daily as a result of a TBI. Many more people suffer disabilities and many other effects as a result of TBIs. Traumatic brain injuries can happen anywhere, including in the workplace. The likelihood of sustaining a TBI is high in workplaces where physical labor is predominant, like construction sites, warehouses, and factories. However, TBIs can happen in any work environment, including offices. TBIs can range from moderate to severe, and their consequences can be life-altering. Below, we discuss the causes of TBIs in the workplace and the impact of TBIs on workers.
Causes of TBIs in the Workplace
Work-related traumatic brain injuries can occur due to many reasons, and as already mentioned, these injuries can happen in any work environment. The following are some of the common causes of TBIs in the workplace;
- Falls
Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries overall. Even in the workplace, falls are a leading cause of TBIs. Employees working at heights are at a high risk of slips, trips, and falls. For example, construction workers can fall from scaffolds or ladders. Falls can also occur on level ground, for instance, in an office setting, due to wet floors, poor lighting, clatter, and uneven surfaces.
- Being Hit by Objects
Being hit on the head by a piece of equipment, falling debris, or a tool can result in a worker suffering a TBI. Being struck by objects is a common hazard in industries like construction and manufacturing. Workers in these inductors are at significant risk of suffering TBIs, especially if they are not wearing proper protective gear.
- Vehicle-Related Collisions
Employees are at risk of suffering TBIs in motor vehicle accidents. Even a minor accident can result in a TBI.
- Assaults
Assault by coworkers, customers, or intruders can result in TBIs.
Impact of TBIs on Employees
Traumatic brain injuries can have physical, cognitive, and emotional effects on workers. The physical impact of TBIs includes headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sensory problems (such as impaired hand-eye coordination, skin tingling, and trouble with balance), paralysis, difficulties with speech, and seizures. Cognitively, a TBI can affect a worker’s ability to think and remember things. Injured workers may struggle to concentrate, perform routine tasks, or process information. Emotionally, TBIs can lead to anxiety, depression, mood swings, and irritability. Some workers may be unable to control their emotions and experience personality changes.
Fortunately, work-related TBIs can be prevented. The following are some effective strategies for preventing TBIs in the workplace;
- Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Fall protection measures for workers at heights
- Regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards
Legal Help Is Available
If you’ve suffered a work-related traumatic brain injury, you have legal rights and options. Contact our skilled Vermont workers’ compensation attorney at Sluka Law PLC for legal guidance.
Source:
cdc.gov/traumatic-brain-injury/data-research/facts-stats/index.html#:~:text=There%20were%20over%2069%2C000%20TBI%2Drelated%20deaths%20in%20the%20United%20States%20in%202021.1%20That%27s%20about%20190%20TBI%2Drelated%20deaths%20every%20day.
