4 Common Causes of Disfigurement at Work

Workplace accidents are a common occurrence. And while most of these accidents are minor, others can lead to serious injuries – including disfigurement.

How does an employee become disfigured at work? Here are four of the most common ways:

1. Getting Caught in Machinery

Getting caught in machinery can cause serious disfigurement. The machinery can catch clothing or body parts, and the force of the machinery can pull the person into it. The result can be devastating, with limbs being severed or crushed and severe lacerations. In some cases, the person may be pulled into the machinery so that their head and neck are caught which can result in decapitation.

To avoid getting caught in machinery, employees should keep their clothing and hair away from moving parts and never attempt to reach into or touch machinery while it’s in operation.

2. Burns

There is no denying that burns can be incredibly painful. They can also cause disfigurement. When skin is burned, the damage generally isn’t limited to the top layer of tissue. The heat from a burn can damage deeper layers of skin and muscles, tendons, and even bones. In some cases, the damage can be so severe that it requires surgery to repair. And even with surgery, many people are left with permanent scars.

A serious burn can lead to a lifetime of disfigurement.

3. Lacerations

While lacerations may seem like a minor workplace injury, they can cause serious disfigurement. Deep cuts can damage muscles, tendons, and nerves and even lead to amputation. Moreover, lacerations often leave behind scars that can be difficult to conceal.

In some cases, the disfigurement caused by a laceration can be so severe that it leads to social isolation and depression.

For these reasons, it’s important to take precautions to avoid lacerations at work. Wearing protective clothing, using safety equipment, and being careful with sharp objects are all good ways to reduce the risk of a devastating injury.

4. Falling Objects

Whether it’s a dropped tool or a piece of equipment that comes loose, falling objects can cause serious injuries. In addition to causing pain and swelling, falling objects can also lead to disfigurement. A blow to the head can shatter bones, damage teeth, and damage soft tissue. In severe cases, disfigurement can result in facial paralysis or loss of eyesight.

While some injuries can be treated with surgery or rehabilitation, the effects of disfigurement are often permanent. For this reason, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself from falling objects at work. Wearing protective gear, such as a hard hat or goggles, can help to reduce the risk of being injured by a falling object. Additionally, being aware of your surroundings and keeping a safe distance from potential hazards can help you avoid being in the path of a falling object.

Kansas City Workers Compensation Attorney

If you’ve been injured at work, you may be entitled to compensation. The first step is to contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can help you understand your rights and options. At the Law Office of James. M. Hoffman, we have over 30 years of experience helping injured workers get the compensation they deserve and can help you too. Contact us today to discuss your case.