Cases of COVID-19 may have already peaked, but the virus will likely be with us for years to come. As Pennsylvania begins to slowly transition back to some normalcy, more people will return to work, while some continue to work from home.
This pandemic has already placed a great deal of strain on many workers throughout Pennsylvania, however. Among those are:
- Healthcare professionals
- Police officers and first responders
- Grocery and retail store workers
- Truck drivers
Those who start to transition back to work will likely experience a lot of strain in order to meet consumer demand.
During this pandemic, there are generally two risks workers face: the risk of overexertion and the risk of becoming ill with COVID-19.
Overexertion and fatigue
Since the beginning of this pandemic, workers have had to move faster, work harder, and maintain longer hours. When workers are in a hurry to meet demand, safety precautions are often ignored. When workers go above and beyond, they are risk of burnout and fatigue. This can result in:
- Slip, trip, and fall accidents
- Falls from heights
- Accidents with machinery and equipment
- Straining from heavy lifting
- Musculoskeletal issues from repetitive movements
If you were hurt on the job due to an accident, it's critical that you notify your employer immediately and get medical attention. Then, consult an experienced Pennsylvania workers' compensation attorney who can help guide you through the claims process.
Risk of COVID-19 infection
There is only so much workers can do to avoid becoming infected with COVID-19. Workers can maintain a distance of six feet, wear masks, and wash hands frequently. Some workers have to come in close contact with patients, customers, and other employees due to the nature of their jobs.
In many cases, workers may not be fully aware that they have been infected until up to 14 days after coming in contact with the virus.
If you don't go out often aside from attending work and you contracted COVID-19, you likely did so while on the job. A cough, fever and shortness of breath are some symptoms mentioned by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
If you have come down with COVID-19, notify your employer immediately. You will need to take at least two weeks off from work for quarantine and/or medical treatment. You may be eligible for workers' compensation under Pennsylvania law. Your attorney will have to review the details of your case to determine if you are eligible.
To find out if you are eligible for workers' compensation or to get started on your claim, contact O'Malley & Langan Law Offices in Scranton. You can also call us at 866-326-0100. We offer free, confidential case evaluations.
