Airport workers in North Carolina face certain risks on the job; injuries and fatalities are unfortunately common in the airport industry as workers deal with heavy machinery, large vehicles and other dangers. It’s important to understand that if you’re an airport worker and you get injured on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
One of the most dangerous aspects of working at an airport is being on the tarmac, where workers are constantly exposed to all manner of issues associated with large vehicles and heavy machinery. For example, workers may get struck by a vehicle or piece of machinery, such as a baggage cart or an exploding tire.
Workers are also at risk of inhaling fumes and other dangerous particles. Workers may be exposed to jet fuel or other contaminants, which can cause serious health issues. In addition to this exposure happening on the tarmac and in the terminal area, workers are also at risk of getting injured by harmful substances while they work on planes.
It’s not uncommon for workers who load and unload cargo to face serious injuries as workers are constantly dealing with heavy items that can cause injury. For example, workers may drop a piece of cargo on themselves or others and injure them in the process. Other common injuries sustained by airport workers include slips and falls, especially in winter months when ice and snow are present.
Fortunately, workers’ compensation is a program designed to protect workers who have gotten injured on the job. This means that if you sustained an injury while working at an airport, workers’ compensation may provide vital benefits to cover your medical expenses and may even help you recover lost wages if your injury prevents you from returning to work. In addition, workers’ compensation could provide benefits to your family if you died as a result of an airport-related injury.
If you are an airport worker and have been injured on the job, it’s important to understand your rights and how workers’ compensation can help. Understanding the steps you need to take after an injury can make it easier for you to navigate the workers’ compensation claims process.