Attorneys For Injured Manufacturing Workers
Where would we be without our manufacturing workers? As attorneys representing employees who have suffered injuries, we tip our hats to our neighbors who make a living manufacturing the goods that we all rely on. As you have worked hard to create whatever your employer produces, you have directly contributed to the local, state and national economies while supplying people with those necessary products.
An On-The-Job Injury Qualifies You For Workers’ Comp.
No doubt, your manufacturing employer implements safety precautions in the workplace. Even with the best training and equipment, you are not alone if you were injured at work. Manufacturing is one of the most dangerous occupations in Illinois and elsewhere. Sometimes employers are willfully careless about safety measures, with disastrous results. For example, in 2014, a blast at a Chicago Heights manufacturing plant badly injured two workers. After an investigation, OSHA fined Polychem Services Inc. $110,000 for six willful, one repeated and four serious violations or workplace safety regulations.
Your manufacturing accident may seem minor by comparison with the major disaster described above, but if you now face pain, a need for medical care and perhaps an inability to work a normal schedule, you are certainly a candidate for workers’ compensation benefits. If you were injured or if your loved one was killed in a manufacturing facility accident in Illinois, you do not have to wait for an investigation into why it happened. You can make a workers’ compensation claim for medical care and other appropriate benefits right away.
An investigation may show that another entity, not your employer, was negligent and contributed to your injuries. If so, you may be able to make a separate third-party liability claim on top of that. Furthermore, if you will not be able to work full time for a year or longer, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
Manufacturing Industry In The McHenry Area
Our region is home to a vibrant manufacturing landscape, where innovation meets industry excellence. Three are a wide array of manufacturers, each excelling in their respective fields:
- Metal Fabrication: Leading companies in the area are masters of metalworking, crafting essential parts and components for a variety of sectors.
- Plastics: Our plastics manufacturers are at the forefront, creating products and components that serve the packaging, automotive, and consumer goods markets.
- Cutting-edge Electronics: Area electronic manufacturers produce vital components and assemblies, powering the telecommunications and consumer electronics industries.
- Industrial Machinery and Equipment: Local manufacturers design and build state-of-the-art machinery and equipment, catering to diverse industrial applications.
- Food and Beverage: From production to packaging, our food and beverage manufacturers deliver quality products that satisfy and delight.
- Medical Devices: Contributing to the healthcare sector, McHenry hosts manufacturers of medical devices and supplies, ensuring quality and innovation.
- Automotive Parts: Supporting both OEMs and the aftermarket, our automotive parts manufacturers drive the industry forward with precision and reliability.
Examples of Accidents in Manufacturing Industry
In the fast-paced environment of manufacturing facilities, workers face a multitude of potential hazards that can lead to serious accidents. From machinery malfunctions and electrical incidents to chemical exposures and slip-and-fall injuries, the risks are diverse and significant. At our law firm, we understand the complexities of these workplace accidents and are dedicated to advocating for the rights and safety of workers. Our experienced workers’ compensation team at Taradash Johnson Janezic is committed to providing comprehensive legal support to injured manufacturing workers, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Struck-by Accidents
In the dynamic setting of a manufacturing facility, workers frequently handle the movement of materials, tools, and machinery throughout the plant. Struck-by incidents occur when individuals are struck by moving objects like forklifts, overhead cranes, or falling tools and transported materials. These incidents can lead to serious injuries, such as broken bones, head injuries, or even result in loss of life.
Machinery Accidents
Machinery accidents in manufacturing settings can arise from various sources, each presenting unique risks and challenges. Here’s an overview of the types of machinery accidents that can occur:
- Caught-in or Between Accidents: These accidents happen when a worker becomes trapped in or compressed between machinery parts or equipment. This can occur with presses, conveyors, or any moving machinery that can trap body parts.
- Crushing Incidents: Heavy machinery can cause crushing injuries if a worker is caught between the machine and a solid surface. This is common with equipment like forklifts and compactors.
- Entanglement Hazards: Loose clothing, hair, or jewelry can become caught in rotating or moving parts of machinery, such as drills, lathes, or milling machines, leading to severe injuries.
- Struck-by Accidents: Workers can be struck by moving machinery or flying debris, leading to injuries ranging from bruises to more severe trauma. This includes incidents with forklifts, cranes, or improperly secured materials.
- Electrical Incidents: Faulty wiring, improper grounding, or malfunctioning equipment can lead to electrical shocks or burns, posing serious risks in any manufacturing environment.
- Shearing and Cutting Injuries: Machinery like saws, cutters, or slicers can cause severe cuts or amputations if safety protocols are not followed.
- Machine Malfunctions: Equipment failures due to poor maintenance or defects can lead to unexpected accidents, endangering workers operating or near the machinery.
Chemical Exposure
In manufacturing, the use of chemicals is essential for various processes, but it comes with significant risks. When chemicals are mishandled or improperly stored, they can pose serious health hazards to workers and the surrounding environment. Direct exposure to chemicals can lead to immediate issues such as skin irritation, respiratory problems, or chemical burns. Over time, prolonged exposure may result in more severe health effects, including cancer or organ damage.
Request A Free Consultation
The legal team at Taradash Johnson Janezic is ready to evaluate your case at no charge. We want to make sure that you receive all benefits you are eligible for. We have valuable counsel for you whether you have already reported your injury to your Illinois employer or not.
We are eager to meet you, listen to your story and explain how we can help. Call our McHenry law offices at 815-669-4635 or email us at your earliest convenience.