Robotic Exoskeleton May Reduce Workplace Injuries

Each year, nearly three million workers are injured in the workplace. Those in the healthcare industry, manufacturing industry, and air transportation industry are some of the most at-risk private sector workers, and construction workers are among the most at-risk public sector employees. The flexible Modular Agile eXoskeleton (MAX) is hoping to reduce the risk for these, and other workers, with the help of a robotic human exoskeleton.

The exoskeleton system, a product of the University of California Berkeley’s Robotics and Human Engineering Lab, is comprised of three separate units: the backX, shoulder, and legX. Each component can be worn individually, or in any combination, to provide protection to the most commonly injured parts of the body—the back, shoulders, and legs. They are designed to engage to protect the muscles and joints when needed without restriction to the wearer. Full-body suits are primarily aimed at those who work in construction, airport baggage handling, and manufacturing.

Although work injuries do cost companies money through insurance premiums and worker shortages, the cost is dispersed over time. This can make the some $10,000 per full MAX suit seem excessive. Further, savings on workers’ compensation insurance premiums and the costs associated with injury-based lawsuits would likely take a great deal of time to be realized, which could affect the perceived the value for many employers. Yet, it is possible that the suits could be incorporated into some of the highest risk industries slowly and over time. For now, though, workers need to know they have protection and a path for pursuing the fair compensation that they deserve after a workplace injury or illness.

Because every industry, injury, and situation are different, it is critical that workers know how to effectively pursue their claims. Further, there is always the risk of a denied claim or major delays. An experienced workplace injury lawyer can protect your rights, fight for the settlement that you deserve, and ensure all aspects of your claim are considered. So, if you or someone you love has been injured on the job, contact a skilled attorney for assistance.

With three decades of combined experience, the skilled San Jose workplace injury lawyers at Corsiglia McMahon & Allard, L.L.P. have the skills and resources needed to effectively represent you in your work injury claim. Dedicated to your best interest, we will fight for the most favorable outcome possible. Schedule your free initial consultation by calling us at (408) 289-1417 today.

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