What Occupations Lead to the Most Workers’ Compensation Claims in Ohio?

Despite strict regulations and continuous improvements in workplace safety, accidents and injuries remain an unfortunate reality for many workers in Ohio. At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, we understand the devastating effects that a single workplace accident can have not just on the injured employee, but on the people who depend on them at home, too.  

In this blog post, we shine a light on the occupations that are statistically most likely to lead to workers' compensation claims in Ohio. In the process, we explain the risks associated with these professions and offer guidance to anyone injured on the job in our state who is currently navigating the path to recovery and compensation, or looking to get started.

Construction Workers

Construction sites are inherently dangerous. Despite strict safety standards, workers are exposed to risks from falls, machinery, electrical hazards, and more. The physical demands of the job, coupled with the use of heavy machinery and working at heights, place construction workers at a high risk for workplace injuries, making this sector one of the top sources of workers' compensation claims in Ohio.

Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare workers, including nurses, aides, and technicians, face a unique set of challenges and risks in their daily duties. Between the physical strain of lifting and moving patients, the risk of being injured by aggressive patients or families of patients, and the exposure to infectious diseases and hazardous materials, the healthcare sector reports a high number of workers’ compensation claims.

Manufacturing and Warehouse Personnel

The manufacturing and warehousing sectors are critical to Ohio’s economy. Workers in these fields are often required to lift heavy objects, operate heavy machinery, perform repetitive motions that can injure muscles and ligaments, and handle potentially hazardous materials. Such activities can contribute to or cause a range of injuries, from musculoskeletal disorders to machinery-related accidents.

Transportation and Logistics

Employees in the transportation sector, including truck drivers, delivery personnel, and logistics workers, face risks from vehicular accidents, heavy lifting, and long hours on duty that contribute to fatigue and distraction. The nature of their work, which often involves navigating congested roads and adverse weather conditions, places them at a heightened risk for injuries and accidents.

Emergency Responders

Firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical technicians perform critical roles in our society, often putting their own lives at risk to save others. The physical and psychological demands of their jobs, exposure to dangerous situations, and the potential for violent encounters contribute to a high rate of workers' compensation claims among emergency responders.

Forestry Workers

The nature of forestry work, which often involves operating heavy machinery in remote areas, handling chainsaws, and dealing with the unpredictable elements of working outdoors, contributes to a high risk of injuries. Falling trees, equipment accidents, and exposure to harsh weather conditions are just a few of the hazards that make forestry a major source of workers' compensation claims in Ohio.

Energy Sector Employees

The energy sector, which includes people who work in oil, gas, and renewable energy fields, is another major source of workers' compensation claims. Employees are often required to work with complex machinery, at great heights, or in confined spaces. Additionally, the risk of explosions, fires, and exposure to hazardous chemicals adds a layer of danger to their daily tasks.

What Should I Do If I’m Injured at Work in Ohio?

No matter what industry you work in, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your rights to workers’ compensation benefits after a work-related injury. Four steps all injured workers should take include:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by getting medical treatment as soon as possible. Inform the healthcare provider who treats you that your injury is work-related.
2. Report the Injury: Notify your employer about your injury and the circumstances around it as soon as possible. Ohio law requires that injuries be reported within a specific timeframe to qualify for workers' compensation.
3. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your injury, any medical treatments received, communications with your employer, and how the injury impacts your daily life and work.
4. Consult with an Ohio Workers’ Comp Attorney: Consider seeking legal advice from an experienced Ohio workers' compensation attorney to navigate the claims process, deal with any disputes, and ensure your rights are protected.

Contact Our Ohio Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, our legal team is dedicated to guiding you through the workers’ comp process, advocating for your rights, and maximizing your chance of receiving the benefits you deserve. Whether you're dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or the need for physical or vocational rehabilitation after a work injury, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Remember, every worker in Ohio has the right to a safe working environment and the right to compensation in the event of a workplace injury. If you or someone you know has been injured on the job, don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.

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