Fedele & Honschke Attorneys At Law, LLCOcean County Personal Injury Lawyer | Workers Compensation NJ2024-03-14T18:52:18Zhttps://www.sfhlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1604005/2021/11/cropped-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510622024-03-14T18:52:18Z2024-03-14T18:52:18ZDiseases and repetitive strain
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration states that dental professionals face various risks at work. For example, dangerous chemicals, workplace violence, noise and vibration. One common hazard that dental workers face is exposure to infectious diseases. Dental assistants often come into contact with patients' blood and saliva on a daily basis. This can put them at risk of contracting diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV. Proper infection control practices can minimize the risk of exposure to infectious agents.
Another hazard in the dental workplace is ergonomic strain. Dental workers often spend long hours performing repetitive tasks, such as bending over patients, holding dental instruments and maintaining awkward positions. This can lead to musculoskeletal disorders. For example, back pain, neck pain and carpal tunnel syndrome. Furthermore, dental workers can become exposed to various chemicals and substances during procedures. These include dental materials, disinfectants and sterilizing agents. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems and other health issues.
Other risks
In addition to these hazards, dental workers may also face the risk of needlestick injuries, cuts from sharp instruments and accidental exposure to radiation from dental X-rays. These types of injuries can have serious consequences, including infections, lacerations and radiation exposure. Following proper safety procedures is vital for preventing these incidents.
Creating a culture of safety, implementing safety protocols and encouraging open communication about potential hazards can help prevent job-related injuries and promote a safe and healthy work environment for dental workers. By being aware of the hazards they face and taking proactive measures to mitigate risks, dental workers can protect themselves from serious job-related injuries and continue to provide quality care to their patients.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510612024-03-08T22:30:48Z2024-03-13T21:30:41ZRisks of sharps injuries
Health care settings are dynamic environments where workers rely on sharp objects in various medical procedures. These tools that aid in patient care also present inherent dangers to health care workers. Accidental needlesticks, for instance, can occur when administering injections or drawing blood. When they occur, they put health care professionals at risk of infection. Mishandling or improperly disposing of sharp instruments can result in cuts or puncture wounds. This can further heighten the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
Preventive measures
Adhering to proper safety protocols helps mitigate the risk of sharps injuries. Health care facilities must provide comprehensive training to staff on the handling, use and disposal of sharp instruments. This includes utilizing safety-engineered devices designed to minimize the risk of accidental needlesticks. Establishing clear policies and procedures for disposing of sharps waste can help reduce injuries. So, too, can enforcing compliance among health care workers.
Per Safety + Health, health care institutions that consistently follow safety protocols see 38% fewer sharps injuries among staff members than those that do not. Nurses are those most likely to adhere to safety protocols, with almost 70% of them doing so.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510572024-02-26T19:13:01Z2024-02-29T19:12:53ZChoking hazards
Toys with small pieces are a significant choking hazard, especially for kids under three. Be particularly cautious with products that could break apart, as tiny components can end up in a curious one's windpipe.
Toxic materials
Some playthings contain harmful substances that may injure youth or make them sick if they swallow or come into prolonged contact with them. Perilous chemicals, such as phthalates in plastic toys, present significant threats. Sidestep this problem by buying items from reputable brands and stores. Also, check online for any recalls or news articles suggesting trouble.
Sharp edges
Toys with sharp edges or points can lead to cuts or other severe injuries. Look for knifelike sides or tapering features that might puncture the skin. If you find a toy at home that matches this description, throw it away immediately.
Magnets
High-powered magnets, often found in building and sculpture kits, place those who swallow them in peril. If anyone ingests two or more, they can attract each other through intestinal walls, causing blockages or perforations. Prudence suggests supervising tots when they handle such gadgets.
Through information and vigilance, it remains possible to keep playtime worry-free. A simple decision to replace one trinket with another could prevent a tragedy with permanent consequences.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510562024-02-26T19:11:13Z2024-02-28T19:10:48ZDaytime accidents
During the daytime, pedestrian accidents are often influenced by factors such as visibility and traffic volume. In busy urban areas, the daytime can see a higher volume of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Pedestrians may also be more visible to drivers during the day, but distractions, such as smartphones or other activities, can still pose risks to safety.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pedestrian accidents led to 104,000 visits to emergency departments during 2020, based on estimates.
Nighttime accidents
As daylight fades and evening approaches, the risk of pedestrian accidents can increase. Reduced visibility, especially in poorly lit areas, can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians crossing the road or walking along the roadside. The hours of darkness, from dusk to dawn, are the most dangerous time for pedestrians. Limited visibility, combined with factors like drunk driving, fatigue and speeding, make nighttime pedestrian accidents particularly hazardous.
Pedestrians should wear reflective clothing and carry flashlights to increase their visibility to drivers during these low-light conditions. Drivers should always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and be vigilant for pedestrians, especially in low-light conditions. Remember, pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation and awareness from all road users.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510522024-02-14T17:54:40Z2024-02-15T17:53:19ZHeavy machinery accidents
In industries such as construction, manufacturing and agriculture, heavy machinery is a huge part of operations. However, malfunctioning equipment often leads to devastating crush injuries. Workers can get caught between moving parts of machinery or pinned against stationary objects.
Falling objects
In workplaces where items are up high, falling objects pose a significant risk. Tools, equipment or materials can slip from shelves and result in crush injuries. Workplaces need to provide appropriate personal protective equipment such as helmets and safety shoes, along with implementing measures to secure objects properly.
Vehicle accidents
In industries involving transportation, such as logistics and delivery services, vehicle accidents can lead to crush injuries. Vehicles can pin workers underneath them or in between places or other vehicles in rollover accidents. Maintaining vehicles properly and providing driver training are important steps for employers.
Collapsed structures
On construction and excavation sites, crush injuries can happen after the collapse of structures or trenches. Debris or materials may fall on workers. Employers should know regular inspections of worksites and proper shoring of trenches are a part of any safe workplace.
Workers' compensation can help workers financially after a crush injury. However, while these injuries are common in various workplaces, they are not unavoidable. By understanding the potential risks and implementing preventive measures, employers can improve the safety of their workplaces.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510512024-02-10T16:00:32Z2024-02-13T15:59:35Z1. Occupational hazard
Frostbite often occurs in occupations that require prolonged exposure to cold environments, such as construction workers, delivery personnel and outdoor laborers. New Jersey is one of the top-paying states for construction laborers, making it an attractive profession for many people. If an employee develops frostbite while performing job duties in these conditions, it may be an occupational hazard.
2. Employer responsibility
Employers in New Jersey are responsible for providing a safe working environment for their employees. This includes taking measures to protect workers from cold-related injuries. For example, employers should provide appropriate clothing, breaks in warm areas and training on recognizing the signs of frostbite.
3. Lack of protective measures
If an employer fails to implement adequate safeguards against cold-related injuries, such as failing to provide appropriate protective gear or neglecting to enforce safety protocols, employees may be at a higher risk of developing frostbite. In such cases, the employer's negligence could make them liable for workers' compensation benefits.
4. Impact on the ability to work
Frostbite can cause significant damage to the body parts it affects, leading to long-term impairment and disability. Injured workers may experience pain, numbness and reduced mobility, making it difficult or impossible to perform their job duties. In these situations, workers' compensation may provide financial support to cover medical expenses and lost wages during recovery.
5. Medical documentation
When applying for workers' compensation benefits in New Jersey, provide thorough documentation of the frostbite injury and its impact on the ability to work. This includes medical records, diagnostic tests and statements from health care professionals detailing the severity of the condition and its prognosis.
By understanding their rights and documenting their injuries, injured workers can seek the support they need to recover and move forward.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510502024-02-08T03:52:05Z2024-02-10T03:51:58ZWhiplash
One painful injury in low-speed car accidents is whiplash. Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are forcefully jerked back and forth, causing strain to the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches and even cognitive difficulties.
Soft tissue injuries
Low-speed car accidents can also result in soft tissue injuries. These injuries involve damage to muscles, tendons and ligaments throughout the body. Even though they might not be immediately apparent, soft tissue injuries can cause pain and discomfort weeks after the accident.
Concussions and head injuries
Even at low speeds, car accidents can cause concussions and other head injuries. The sudden impact can cause the brain to jolt within the skull, leading to bruising, bleeding or swelling. Symptoms of a concussion can include headaches, dizziness, nausea and confusion.
Lower back pain
Even though the impact may not directly involve the lower back area, the sudden jolt and movement of the body can still result in strains or sprains to the muscles and ligaments in the lumbar region. Additionally, the force of the collision can compress the spine, leading to discomfort and pain in the lower back. This type of injury can be particularly debilitating, affecting mobility and daily activities.
Low-speed car accidents and the injuries from them can affect all parts of a person's life and career. Seeking medical attention and understanding the potential risks can help.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510442024-01-29T19:51:14Z2024-02-01T19:51:03ZExcessive fatigue or weakness
A sudden onset of excessive tiredness could signal various types of organ dysfunction. For example, the liver processes nutrients and detoxifies the blood. If It suffers damage, it cannot handle these processes well, leading to a lack of energy and overall fatigue.
Also, kidney problems could create a sense of faintness or weakness. The kidneys filter waste from the blood and maintain electrolyte balance. Dysfunction in the kidneys could cause a buildup of toxins in the body and intense fatigue.
Trouble with the bladder
Sudden issues with incontinence or alterations in urine color could signal serious problems with the bladder. The root cause could be an infection. However, bladder troubles could even come from spinal cord injuries and neurological issues that disrupt the signals between the brain and the bladder.
At the same time, a decreased urine output could be a sign of acute kidney failure. Unfortunately, this condition can be fatal and requires quick treatment.
Abnormal swelling in the body
A person may want to chalk up swelling to eating certain foods or bumps and bruises. Instead of dismissing abnormal swelling, an injured individual may want to ensure that it is not a sign of edema, which is a buildup of fluid in the tissues.
Congestive heart failure can be one cause of edema, as can liver disease and kidney disease. When swelling accompanies shortness of breath, chest pain or an irregular heartbeat, a person should speak to a physician to find the root cause.
The organs perform vital functions in the body, and untreated damage could result in expensive and life-altering ailments. By being aware of the signs of organ damage, a wounded person could address the injury and prevent further harm.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510432024-01-29T19:48:30Z2024-01-30T19:48:06ZSigns and symptoms of overexertion
Recognizing signs of overexertion may help a person mitigate the most serious effects. The four most common physical symptoms include:
Exhaustion: Overexertion might start with extreme tiredness that can lead to irritability, dizziness and irrational thinking
Nausea: Queasiness in the stomach could be due to working too hard and dehydration
Faintness: A sudden sensation of lightheadedness or dizziness can be another warning sign
Acute pain: A sharp and intense discomfort is indicative of potential strain
Identifying these signals is important as they indicate that the body is reaching its limits. Those who overexert themselves can experience all sorts of injuries. For example, joint dislocations, muscle sprains, tendonitis and stress fractures are possible.
Furthermore, the irritability from fatigue and pain can devolve into abnormally low motivation. A sufferer might even experience chronic anxiety or depression.
Tips for avoiding and treating overexertion
By staying alert to the signs of overexertion, workers can take timely actions to prevent further harm. A good first step is regular stretching to prep the body for any strenuous activity.
Workers also need to take their time when making patient transfers, being sure to use good posture and techniques. Taking appropriate breaks can also prevent overexertion, as are adequate nutrition and hydration.
Someone who experiences overexertion usually needs more than a night’s rest. The worst injuries can require surgery or other medical treatments. However, in the earliest stages, the injury may simply require sufficient rest time for healing, a cold compress and elevation to reduce swelling.
When an intense work environment results in overexertion, the employee may be able to cover the cost of treatment with workers’ compensation insurance. Still, overexertion can be difficult to prove, which is why watching for the signs and symptoms can assist with a claim.]]>On Behalf of Fedele & Honschke Attorneys at Law, LLChttps://www.sfhlaw.com/?p=510342024-01-17T19:10:27Z2024-01-18T19:10:20ZResponsibility of business and property owners
Property and business owners bear the responsibility of maintaining safe premises, especially during winter. This includes clearing walkways, driveways and parking lots of snow and ice promptly.
People entering stores from snowy parking lots usually have excess moisture on their shoes, which often transfers to store floors. Business owners should place moisture-absorbing mats, mop these areas regularly and prominently place cones or warning signs.
Ongoing storm rule
Ongoing winter storms present a continual challenge for property owners. The accumulation of snow and ice demands consistent efforts to ensure that outdoor areas remain safe for pedestrians.
In New Jersey, the ongoing storm rule acknowledges the difficulty property owners face during continuous winter storms. This legal principle recognizes that immediate snow and ice removal may be impossible. As a result, property owners may not be liable for slip-and-fall accidents until a reasonable time after the storm stops.
Tips to avoid slip-and-fall accidents
Choose footwear with slip-resistant soles to enhance traction on slippery surfaces. Adopting shorter steps can help maintain balance on icy or snowy pathways.
Pay attention to the ground conditions and potential hazards, especially in areas with poor lighting. Use handrails for added stability while navigating stairs or inclined surfaces when available.
Check weather forecasts and plan your outings to avoid going out during severe winter weather. Inform property owners or relevant authorities if you notice unsafe conditions, such as uncleared walkways.
Common injuries resulting from slip-and-fall accidents
As winter blankets New Jersey with snow and ice, the risk of slip-and-fall accidents surges. Pedestrians have no protection when they fall, and they can sustain serious injuries.
The impact of a fall on icy or slippery surfaces can lead to fractures or sprains, particularly in the wrists, arms or legs.
Slip-and-fall accidents may result in back injuries, ranging from minor strains to more severe issues affecting the spine.
Falls can lead to head injuries, including concussions, which require prompt medical attention.
Impact with hard surfaces during a fall can cause bruises and contusions, contributing to pain and discomfort.
Those injured may qualify to seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and other fall-related costs.
Take precautions
Property owners must fulfill their responsibilities in clearing snow and ice, while individuals can take preventive measures. As winter storms persist, these precautions become increasingly necessary to minimize the risks of slip-and-fall incidents.]]>