The airline industry encompasses a wide variety of jobs. From baggage handlers to flight attendants, all employees work hard to get passengers from one place to the next. To do this, these employees often deal with work-site risks and possible injuries.
Understanding the answers to the frequently asked questions about workers’ compensation may encourage injured workers to seek medical treatment.
What causes the most frequent airline worker injuries?
No airline job is entirely risk-free, and some positions carry a higher chance of injury. A few of the most common causes of injuries in various airline positions are:
- In-flight crew – turbulence, burning liquids, and exposure to multiple illnesses
- Ground control – loud noises, slippery pavement, and moving vehicles
- Baggage handlers – heavy lifting, loud machinery, and repetitive movements
While safety equipment helps prevent many of these injuries, sometimes accidents are unavoidable.
Are certain injuries more common?
The airline industry’s quick pace and physical demands can lead to several common injuries. While no two injuries are the same, most fit into the following categories:
- Strained muscles, nerves, and tendons
- Shoulder pain
- Hearing loss
- Back, neck and spinal injuries
- Broken bones
- Concussions
Workers’ compensation might cover treatment for any of the above injuries.
What benefits can injured airline workers receive?
Injured airline workers must notify their employers about any injury sustained on the job. Employers can then file the necessary workers’ compensation paperwork. Once approved, workers’ compensation should cover the cost of medical care and lost wages.
Workers’ compensation is available to all airline employees regardless of where they travel. Knowing benefits are available for injured workers may encourage employees to file a claim with their employer’s insurance.