Foot injuries on the job can be painfully damaging

Workers in South Carolina may be concerned about the potential for serious foot injuries on the job. Many employees frequently lift heavy items, walk long distances or stand for lengthy periods. While each of these tasks may ordinarily seem unremarkable, workers could eventually develop disabling injuries that begin in the feet and can affect the knees, hips or spine. Because of the importance of standing and walking for many jobs, a foot injury can cause workers to lose time from the job or even the ability to continue in their current employment.

Each year, there are over 53,000 foot injuries leading to missed days at work. Out of every 10,000 employees, nearly five full-time workers are kept away from work due to damage sustained to the feet. Some of the most common causes of workplace injuries that affect the feet are slip-and-fall accidents. Every year, there are 44.5 million injury-causing slip-and-fall accidents across the country, leading to $967.9 billion dollars in costs. Anti-fatigue floor mats designed to aid standing in one place are normally helpful for worker comfort and safety, but they can also pose a tripping hazard. Poor flooring can also be a danger as cracks, damages or even excessive slipperiness can lead to serious workplace accidents.

Foot protection can also be important on the job. It’s important to remember that good work boots provide stronger traction between the foot and the floor, helping to avoid slips or trips. In addition, if one is already suffering foot pain, they may be more likely to further injure their feet. Those with painful feet are more likely to lose balance.

Whether caused by slipping and falling or malfunctioning equipment, workplace injuries can be personally and financially devastating. A workers’ compensation attorney can help an injured employee protect their rights and seek the benefits they deserve.