It is common for teenagers in Georgia and throughout the nation to have jobs during the summer months. However, those jobs may put a young worker's safety in jeopardy. According to NIOSH, there were 403 workers under the age of 24 who died from work-related injuries in 2015. Of those who died, 24 were under the age of 18. Between 1998 and 2007, there were an average of 795,000 nonfatal injuries incurred by young workers who were treated in hospitals each year.
In the state of Washington, there were 675 teens 17 or younger who were injured on the job in 2016. Cuts, sprains and strains were among the most common injuries that were reported in that state. Nationally, younger workers are at risk of getting hurt because of unsafe machinery, a lack of training and a lack of supervision.
However, the dangers workers face depend on the industry. For instance, those who work in retail may be vulnerable to getting hurt because of heavy lifting or slippery floors. Those who work outdoors may face dangers from machinery or exposure to hot weather. Young people who work as janitors or work in jobs in the agriculture industry may face hazards related to chemical exposure. Teens working office jobs may get hurt because of repetitive motion.
Workers who experience on-the-job injuries may face weeks, months or years of rehab. It may take multiple surgeries, multiple medications and physical therapy to fully recover from a back, neck or joint injury. Those who have been hurt may wish to have the representation of an attorney when seeking workers' compensation benefits.
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