On behalf of The Law Office of Michael J. Joshi on Wednesday, March 27, 2019.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recently reported its concern over the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in public safety workers nationwide. If you are a firefighter or an emergency medical technician in Missouri, you might be alarmed to learn that your chances of developing MSD are five times higher than that of most workers in other industries. In its National Occupational Research Agenda for the public safety sector, NIOSH published the agency's objectives to address employee safety in this sector.
Although the occupational safety and health of all public workers traditionally fell in one sector, safety authorities say law enforcement, fire services, corrections, wildland fire services and emergency medical services face unique health and safety issues. You might find comfort in learning about the objectives to do more research and develop strategies to protect public safety workers.
Your occupation poses many hazards, but MSDs, cardiovascular diseases, auto accidents and workplace violence will receive particular attention. NIOSH says additional research will define risk factors and establish interventions to limit occupational illnesses and injuries.
Safety authorities will then evaluate all new technologies to determine effectiveness.
There is typically little time to look out for yourself while trying to save the lives of others.
Along with these risks, you could face aggression and violence at any time during your shifts. Although correctional officers frequently face assault risks, all safety officers could be victims of workplace violence.
Although you face high levels of risk in your job as a public safety official, you need not to concern yourself about the mounting medical bills and lost wages. The Missouri workers' compensation insurance program has your back. You can claim benefits to cover those financial losses, and an attorney with experience in fighting for the rights of injured public safety workers can navigate the benefits claim on your behalf.