Many of the workers' compensation situations we write about involve construction or industrial settings. These types of occupations are not the only situations in which workers are hurt in the course of completing tasks related to their jobs. For example, those who work in poultry plants could suffer workplace injuries.

A study that was recently conducted by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health provides more specific information on the topic. The study determined that 57 percent of those who work at poultry plants throughout the nation experience on-the-job ergonomic or musculoskeletal injuries. A common disorder these workers face is carpal tunnel syndrome. The study indicated that 42 percent of workers deal with this disorder. Undoubtedly some who suffer these injuries work at poultry plants located in the state of Pennsylvania.

Some believe that this number could increase if the United States Department of Agriculture and owners of poultry plants get their way. They are seeking to change the rules regarding how many chickens are processed each day. NIOSH does not support changing the rules because it believes more workers will be hurt. It has recommendations it believes would reduce these including a greater focus on musculoskeletal disorders and instituting more breaks per shift.

Workers who suffer from this, or other ergonomic or musculoskeletal conditions, may find that the symptoms are so severe that they are unable to complete tasks associated with their job. This can leave workers unsure of how bills will be paid. Workers' compensation benefits may cover this financial need. Securing these benefits is accomplished by filing a claim which is often initially denied. In these instances injured workers may benefit from the assistance of a lawyer.

Source: People's World, "Study: 57 percent of poultry workers suffer ergonomic ills," April 21, 2014