Workplace head injuries are the most expensive workers’ comp claims to employers and injured workers. In general, these injuries, including the ones to the face, skull, and eyes, are a result of the following things:

  • A falling object
  • Slip and fall accidents
  • Heavy machinery accidents

Dangers associated with brain damage are critical, and so do injuries. They may have a life-threatening impact on the worker’s life. 

So, if you know someone who has suffered from a workplace head injury, understanding the types and causes is crucial. So, how does a worker qualify for worker’s comp benefits? And, more importantly, how will they file the claim? To receive the maximum amount of compensation, learn the most important details. 

Where Can Head Injuries at Work Occur?

A few industries are prone to head injuries. Those that need heavy equipment and machinery may have employees experiencing head injuries. On the other hand, employees working in physically demanding environments may experience head injuries.

In short, domains that involve physical contact will see head injuries from concussions and collisions. Here are the job profiles that have higher chances of meeting head injuries at work:

  • Firefighters & first responders
  • Law enforcement
  • Professional athletes or sportspersons
  • Construction employees and workers
  • Stock & material movers
  • Warehouse personnel & loading dock employees
  • Trucking and transportation employees
  • Nursing and Ambulatory Staff

Outlining the Common Causes of Workplace Head Injuries

Workers may encounter workplace accidents that result in severe injuries. Some of the common causes are:

  • Slip & Fall Accidents

Slip and fall is another common cause of brain injuries. Honestly speaking, any job site might get addressed as the slip and fall hazard when spills, worn or torn carpet, and cracked flooring don’t get repaired.

  • Vehicle Crash

While driving a truck or car for work, workers are at risk of a crash. Some include trucking, construction, delivery services, residential & commercial cleaning, home health care, and home improvement & repair services. These accidents may cause minor or severe head injuries.

  • Work Equipment is Defective

An employee may get injured with faulty work equipment. That might result in a head injury. Those who encounter this type of accident may pursue a claim for deserving compensation against the equipment manufacturer and employers.

  • Construction Issues

Falls and getting stuck by objects are causes of death in construction sites. They are leading ways why construction workers may suffer severe head injuries.

  • Fire and Explosions

Construction and factory workers get exposed to hazardous substances. These dangerous substances may explode & cause a fire. Workers may suffer from a devastating brain injury when debris hits the head.

Minor and Severe Symptoms of Head Injuries

For a worker to file a claim for workplace head injury, being aware of these symptoms is important. The common symptoms of a minor head injury are:

  • Mild headache
  • Temporary ringing in ears
  • Lightheadedness
  • A spinning sensation
  • Nausea

Here is the severity of head injuries. They include:

  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Vomiting
  • Coordination problems or issues with balancing
  • Serious disorientation
  • Not being able to focus the eyes
  • Abnormal movements in eyes
  • Loss of muscle control
  • A worsening headache
  • Memory loss
  • Mood swings 
  • Clear fluid leaks from your nose or ear 

When employees experience these symptoms because of job-related accidents or injuries, it is a warning sign of brain trauma.