Janitor and Cleaning Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Servicing Philadelphia
Janitorial and cleaning services jobs have some of the highest rates of workplace injury. These jobs are physically demanding, and employees are often exposed to chemicals and hazardous substances on a daily basis. COVID-19 has created a new level of risk, especially for cleaners that enter residential homes. If you or a loved one has suffered a workplace injury while working in the cleaning industry, contact our workers’ comp law firm for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Janitor and Cleaners Worker-Related Injuries
Janitors and cleaners, as a class of workers, suffer an average of 50,000 injuries per year that require days off work, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This profession was also ranked 16th for injury risk across all forms of employment. Exposure to hazardous chemicals is a major issue for cleaners and, without proper safety precautions, can result in serious health complications. In healthcare environments, cleaners can be at risk for exposure to blood pathogens due to handling dangerous materials. The physical labor of the job also puts significant stress on the body, as it involves constant lifting and bending. This can result in a variety of muscle strains and debilitating conditions that can worsen over time.
COVID-19 Risks for Janitors and Cleaners
At the time of this publication, Pennsylvania has over 133,000 positive cases of COVID-19. Cleaners and janitors interact with the general public on a constant basis, which makes them a high-risk worker during the pandemic. This is especially true for cleaners that are employed in hospitals and nursing homes, as the risk of infection is significantly higher in these workplaces. Not all janitors and cleaners are classified as essential workers, however, which can create complications when pursuing workers’ compensation. The difficulty in building a workers’ compensation case in this situation is proving that the illness was directly caused while performing job duties.
Why Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
If you’re a janitor or cleaner who’s suffered a work-related injury or illness, it’s imperative that you consult with a trained legal professional to examine your case. This consultation can provide you with the best chance to receive the compensation you deserve. For example, if you were exposed to a dangerous chemical and your company failed to institute OSHA safety procedures, you may be eligible for a larger compensation.
At Huber & Palsir, we pride ourselves on our ability to support and aid our clients during difficult legal cases. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to review your case.
