Injuries to Teachers at Work

Firefighters, police officers, and construction workers all have something in common – they all go to work every day in an industry that has a high risk of harm. When someone decides to be a teacher, however, they likely do not immediately consider the possibility they can be seriously injured on the job. However, there are risks of injury for teachers, especially in this day and age of repeated school shootings. While guns certainly pose one of the biggest threats to teachers at schools, there are also numerous risks of injuries even if a teacher never experiences a school shooting.

• Slip and falls – Schools hallways, classrooms, gyms, restrooms, and cafeterias can all have hazards that cause a teacher to suddenly slip and fall down. Floors may be wet without a proper warning sign. Rugs in classrooms may shift while a teacher is walking on it. There may be debris or food on the ground or in classrooms. All of these hazards can cause a teacher to slip and fall. Slip and fall injuries can be serious and often require immediate medical treatment.
• Repetitive strain injuries – Many teachers engage in repeated activities every day on the job. Teachers may stand at whiteboards, grade numerous papers, or lift objects or students on a regular basis. If a teacher is teaching a computer class or related subject, they may sit in a chair and type for the majority of the day. All of these activities can result in repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel, tendinitis, and more.
• Exposure – Teachers run the risk of toxic exposure, especially because they spend so much time at their school. They may be exposed to mold, dust, dirt, or even asbestos if they work in an older school. Teachers of chemistry and related subjects may come in contact with bunsen burners or harsh chemicals. All of these can be dangerous and can result in severe injuries.
• Violence – Everyone – teacher or not – is at risk of being injured by violence at school. As mentioned, recent instances of violence have included vicious attacks on teachers and students with semi-automatic weapons. However, teachers can also suffer violence at the hands of students or other visitors to the school. These assaults can cause severe injuries or even death.

When a teacher is injured while working, they do not have the same options as they would if they were injured in their free time. Instead, teachers seek benefits for their medical bills and lost wages by filing a workers’ compensation claim.

Contact an Atlanta Workers’ Compensation Attorney at Hasner Law PC for Help

Being injured at work can be devastating and affects your life at home, as well. The Georgia workers’ compensation lawyers of Hasner Law have helped many hard-working people in the Atlanta area obtain the benefits they need after a workplace accident and injury. It is important to remember that anyone can be injured on the job, including school workers. Teachers should take the necessary steps to stay safe and reach out to a lawyer.

For more information, please contact the Atlanta workers’ compensation law firm of Hasner Law P.C. at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve in Fulton County, Chatham County, and its surrounding areas:

Hasner Law PC – Atlanta Law Office
2839 Paces Ferry Rd SE #1050
Atlanta, GA 30339
(678) 888-4878

Hasner Law PC – Savannah Law Office
221 W York St
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 234-2334