If you’ve been injured while working a seasonal job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
Every year, millions of Americans take on seasonal jobs to earn extra money. Whether it’s working as Santa Claus at a mall during Christmas time, being a lifeguard at the beach during the summer, or helping with package delivery, seasonal jobs can be a great way to make some extra income. However, workers in these positions are often at a greater risk of workplace injury than other employees. Below, we’ll discuss why this is the case and offer tips to help seasonal workers avoid injuries on the job.
Reasons Why Seasonal Workers Are at Greater Risk of Workplace Injury Than Others
There are several reasons why seasonal workers are more likely to be injured on the job than other employees. Here are some of them:
First, seasonal workers are often only employed for a short period before they move on to another job or return to school. This lack of continuity can make it difficult for employers to train these employees on safety procedures and protocols properly. Also, since these workers are less familiar with their workplace, they may be more likely to take shortcuts or engage in risky behavior while on the job.
Second, most seasonal work requires employees to work extended shifts or irregular hours. For example, many retail employees are expected to work during the busy holiday season. This often means working long hours under a great deal of pressure to meet deadlines or sales targets with little rest, which can lead to fatigue and a higher risk of injury.
Finally, seasonal work is often physical and can involve tasks that are repetitive or require lifting heavy objects. These conditions can increase the likelihood of workplace injuries such as strains, sprains, and musculoskeletal disorders.
Tips to Help Workers Avoid Injuries During a Seasonal Job
Now that we’ve discussed some of the reasons why seasonal workers are at greater risk of being injured on the job, let’s take a look at some tips to help you avoid injuries during your next seasonal gig:
- Get proper training from your employer before beginning work. Ensure you understand all safety procedures and know how to use any equipment you’ll be working with.
- Don’t try to do too much at once. Focus on one task at a time and take your time with each task. Rushing will only increase your chances of making a mistake.
- Listen to your body and take breaks as needed. If you’re feeling tired or sore, take a break and rest up before getting back to work.
- Ask questions. If you’re unsure about how to complete a task safely, ask your supervisor for clarification. It’s better to ask questions than to risk an injury by doing something incorrectly.
- Wear appropriate clothing – Always wear clothing appropriate for the task at hand and the environment you’ll be working in. This includes closed-toe shoes, long pants, and sunscreen if you’ll be working outdoors.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water and eating regular meals or snacks. This will help you maintain your energy levels and avoid dehydration-related accidents such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times and look out for potential hazards. If you see something that looks dangerous, bring it to your supervisor’s attention right away so it can be addressed properly.
Speak With a Work Injury Lawyer
If you’ve been injured while working a seasonal job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. At the Law Office of James. M. Hoffman, we have over 30 years of experience helping injured Missouri workers get the benefits they deserve. Contact us 24/7 at (314) 361-4300 for a free consultation with an experienced St. Louis work injury lawyer.