Bricklayers and Other Skilled Trade Workers Have an Alarming Injury Rate

Although there are many industries with exceptionally high rates of work injury, those that involve skilled trade workers, such as bricklayers and masonry workers have some of the most alarming rates in existence. To make matters worse, their injuries are often debilitating and, in many cases, permanent. Learn what rights you may have as a skilled tradesperson after suffering an injury while on the job, and how an experienced attorney can help.

In a recent poll of skilled trade workers, researchers determined that some 72 percent are injured while on the job – that is nearly three-fourths of workers within the industry. Even more concerning is that many of these individuals continue working while injured because they simply cannot afford to take time off work. Independent contractors are, by default, are the most likely to continue working after an injury because they may not have an employer to fall back on. However, even these individuals may be eligible for certain types of compensation.

While the recent poll did not address specific work injuries among bricklayers, masonry workers, and other skilled trade workers, former studies have. One determined that back injuries and those pertaining to the musculoskeletal system are, by far, the most common. Much of this is related to the type of work they do – constant and repetitive heavy lifting above the shoulder area, in sometimes hot or cold or cramped conditions.

What is most concerning about this is that such injuries, when ignored, can have long-term implications for workers. For example, what might have started as a minor rotator cuff injury can turn into an injury that requires surgical intervention. In some cases, that may even limit the worker’s ability to continue doing their job, and it may even hinder their everyday life outside of work. However, if they wait too long to file a claim, they may be ineligible for compensation from their employer or a negligent party.

Although some individuals in the trade industry may be ineligible for compensation, every injured worker should, at the very least, have their case examined. In some situations, negligence may be an underlying cause of injury. In others, the worker may be fully entitled to a settlement through workers’ compensation. Either way, it is crucial to take time away, receive treatment, and attempt to receive compensation; it is, after all, your livelihood.

Skilled and experienced, Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard, LLP can assist you with your work injury case. In every situation, we aggressively pursue the most favorable outcome possible. Schedule a free and personalized consultation with our San Jose work injury lawyers to learn more. Call (408) 289-1417 today.

• Occupational demands and health effects for bricklayers and construction supervisors
• Musculoskeletal Injuries in the Masonry Trade
• Bricklayers at risk for back injury: survey
• Brickies’ injury hell as 72% are injured at work