Although common in the construction industry, cumulative trauma injuries (CTIs) are some of the most complex workers’ compensation claims. They often result in long, painful experiences for employees. Therefore, it’s crucial that construction employers reduce the risk of CTIs and associated workers’ compensation claims.
Common CTIs in Construction
CTIs, also known as repetitive movement or overuse injuries, result from repeated movements, improper or awkward positioning, vibration, or forceful exertion over an extended period. Construction workers face elevated exposure to these conditions, leading to the degeneration of their impacted body parts and necessitating medical treatment.
The following are common types of CTIs in construction:
Low back injuries are caused by repetitive lifting, bending, and twisting. These types of injuries include strain, disc degeneration, and chronic pain.
Shoulder injuries, such as rotator cuff irritation and tendonitis, can result from repetitive overhead work, lifting, and holding materials away from the body.
Knee injuries can be caused by frequent kneeling, squatting, climbing, and load-bearing tasks.
Wrist, hand, and finger injuries can occur due to repetitive gripping, vibration from tools, and forceful use. These types of injuries include tendonitis, trigger finger, and carpal tunnel.
CTIs can present with a variety of symptoms, including pain, inflammation, numbness or tingling, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
Workers’ Compensation Claims From CTIs
CTI claims can be complicated and costly. Since such injuries occur over an extended length of time, it’s often challenging to determine the root cause of the injury. Many workers also delay reporting their injuries; they may assume their injuries
are temporary, avoid medical care, and end up with more severe injuries and higher claim costs over time.
Since CTIs can affect multiple body parts and result in long-term damage, they often require extended treatment, such as physical therapy. Employers may have to modify the injured employee’s duties, or the worker may even require vocational retraining if the injury prevents them from returning to their usual work tasks. In general, CTIs impact employers by increasing employees’ time away from work, raising medical and indemnity costs, and complicating claims investigations. Preventing these injuries is more cost-effective for employers than managing their subsequent claims.
How to Mitigate CTI Claims
Construction employers can help prevent CTI injuries among workers with the following strategies:
- Conduct ergonomic risk assessments to identify tasks with repetitive motion hazards.
- Provide proper tools and equipment and redesign work tasks in ways that reduce strain and physical exertion. Where possible, incorporate mechanical lifts; ergonomic or anti-vibration tools and tools that require less grip force; and adjustable platforms that reduce bending and overhead reach.
- Provide employee training on ergonomics and CTI prevention. Workers should be instructed on proper lifting techniques, posture, tool handling, and early symptom recognition.
- Encourage early injury reporting to reduce medical severity and claim costs.
- Create wellness programs that teach employees how to care for their bodies, reduce injury risk, and promote overall well-being.
Employer Takeaway
CTIs are significant challenges in the construction industry, but they are also preventable. Implementing preventive measures can help employers protect their employees and minimize workers’ compensation costs.
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