Stonemasonry is a demanding profession that requires skill, precision, and physical labor. Unfortunately, the nature of the work also puts stonemason workers at risk of injuries.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, stonemason workers have one of the highest rates of non-fatal occupational injuries and illnesses among all construction trades. Common injuries among stonemason workers include sprains and strains from lifting heavy stone blocks and tools, cuts and lacerations from handling sharp tools and materials, and injuries from slips, trips, and falls.
Working with heavy machinery and tools also increases the risk of serious injuries, such as crushed limbs or fingers, burns and eye injuries. Stonemason workers are also at risk of developing chronic conditions like lung disease and silicosis, caused by inhaling silica dust that is created during cutting, grinding, and polishing of natural stone materials.
To prevent injuries among stonemason workers, employers are responsible for providing a safe working environment, training workers on how to use tools and equipment safely, and providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Workers also play an important role in preventing injuries by following safety procedures and reporting any hazards or unsafe conditions to their employer.
If a stonemason worker is injured on the job, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to workers who are injured or become ill as a result of their job. The specific requirements for filing a claim and the types of benefits available vary by state, so it’s important to check with your employer or state’s workers’ compensation board for specific information.
In general, to file a claim for workers’ compensation, a worker must notify their employer of the injury or illness as soon as possible, usually within a few days or a week, and then follow up with an official claim. The employer is then responsible for filing a report and forward it to their insurance carrier and/or the state’s workers compensation board. The worker may be required to provide medical documentation of the injury or illness, and the claim will be evaluated by the insurance carrier, who will determine if the worker is eligible for benefits.
In conclusion, injuries among stonemason workers are common due to the physical nature of the work, but many of these injuries can be prevented by providing safe working environments, training, and appropriate PPE. Workers who are injured on the job may be eligible for workers’ compensation, and it is essential to notify the employer and follow up with an official claim as soon as possible.
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To learn more or share your experiences call the Workers’ Compensation Group of Los Angeles at (877) 292-4888 or schedule a consultation online.
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