Job-Related Foot Injuries A Common Occurrence In Mississippi

Jobs that require long periods of standing, walking, and lifting can put a lot of strain on workers’ feet.  

According to EHS Today, foot injuries can be more serious than you think. An injury could start out as foot pain and work its way up the knees, hips, and back. As a result, workers are susceptible to sustaining serious and potentially life-threatening injuries.  

If you’ve been hurt on the job due to a foot injury, it’s important that you understand your rights. A single injury can leave you out of work or unable to collect a paycheck.  

Luckily, in Mississippi, workers’ compensation is a no fault system. If you sustain an injury that was your fault, you can still collect benefits – as long as the injury happened within the scope of your employment. 

How often do foot injuries occur on the job?  

Each year, there are roughly 53,000 job-related foot injuries in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This accounts for 4.8 foot injuries per 10,000 workers.  

The EHS article attributes foot injuries to slip, trip, and fall hazards, which according to The National Safety Council (NSC), caused 44.5 injuries in the US.   

Slip, trip, and fall accidents at work are often caused by:   

• Pre-installed anti-fatigue mats designed to provide foot comfort for employees who spend a lot of time on their feet 
• Pre-existing pain in feet that can cause issues with gait and balance 
• Shoes or boots with poor traction that can put workers at risk of slipping and falling 
• Slippery floors, uneven surfaces, debris, and clutter put workers at risk of being injured 

Creating a safer work environment 

EHS urges employers to take the following measures to prevent slip, trip, and fall accidents in the workplace:  

• Implement an insole program – Insoles in shoes and boots provide comfort for workers who spend a lot of time standing or walking.  
• Safety awareness – Slip, trip, and fall hazards exist in just about every work environment. Employees should be made aware of these hazards regularly.  
• Extra breaks – In order to prevent accidents from occurring, employers should allow their workers at least two ten-minute breaks to rest their feet. This can create a safer and more productive work environment in the long run.  

Should you sustain an injury on the job in Mississippi, it’s important that you speak to an experienced workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible.  

Contact Tabor Law Firm, P.A. today to start your claim.