In New Zealand, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) is the government entity responsible for that country’s version of workers’ compensation. The ACC recently released some statistics about injuries and office workers in New Zealand. Obviously, an office isn’t dangerous in the way a construction site or an aircraft carrier is dangerous, but cubicles, desks, and water coolers are not without risks. If you’re injured on the job in southern California, you probably qualify to receive workers’ comp benefits. The best way to do that is with the help of an experienced, Los Angeles-based California workers’ compensation attorney.
Common Office Injuries
In 2013, New Zealand’s ACC recorded over 8,000 injury claims from office workers. These included:
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Paper cuts: 47 claims
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Coffee scalds: 31 claims, mostly from spilling hot coffee
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Lifting-related injuries: back problems from heavy boxes
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Falling objects: broken arms, neck, head, and foot injuries
Preventing Office Accidents
Office managers can reduce risks with simple steps:
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Lower coffee temperature or replace the coffeemaker
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Use protective rubber finger pads for collating tasks
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Secure loose cables and replace worn rugs or carpets to prevent tripping
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Ensure storage areas are safe; avoid stacking heavy boxes unsafely
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Provide back braces and safety training if lifting is routine
Safety Audits Are Key
A thorough workplace safety audit should evaluate furniture, equipment, foot traffic patterns, and the overall environment to identify hazards before injuries occur.
Know Your Rights After an Injury
If you’re injured at work in Los Angeles, even with precautions in place, report your injury and seek medical treatment immediately. Then consult an experienced, Los Angeles-based California workers’ compensation attorney to understand your legal rights and options.