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ToggleSpinal cord injuries (SCI) are life-altering and affect both your physical and emotional well-being. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 500,000 suffer spinal cord injuries every year. While this can occur anywhere, including road accidents, there are some professions where workers are at a higher risk than others.
This is because of the nature of the job. Victims injured because of an employer’s negligence in Nevada are eligible for compensation.
To ensure you get the right compensation, it is best to hire a Las Vegas spinal cord injury lawyer, who will proceed with the claim on your behalf.
In this article, we will discuss the 4 top professions in Las Vegas where the chances of getting a SCI are extremely high. By understanding the risks, those working in these sectors can learn to protect themselves better.
1. Construction Workers
In 2022, the private construction sector had the highest number of fatalities in Nevada, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Reports from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) show that falls are the leading cause of injuries in construction.
Construction workers face risks like falling from ladders, roofs, or scaffolding and being in accidents involving heavy machines. These incidents can lead to severe spinal cord injuries, leading to partial and even complete paralysis. To reduce these risks, employers should prioritize safety by doing regular safety training courses and providing personal protective equipment.
2. Professional Athletes
Professional athletes push their bodies to the limit, especially in high-contact and extreme sports, putting them at a higher risk of getting spinal cord injuries. Football players, wrestlers, gymnasts, and people who play sports like skiing and motocross face higher risks because of the physical intensity and unpredictable nature of these activities.
For example, a high fall or poorly executed landing in gymnasts can lead to serious spinal trauma. Studies show that 8.7% of new cases of SCIs in the country are related to sports injuries. To prevent this, players should undergo proper training, use protective gear like helmets, and follow safety protocols.
3. Warehouse Workers
In warehouses, workers are required to lift and move heavy objects, which can lead to serious injuries. Common accidents include:
- Falls from high areas
- Forklift collisions
- Being hit by falling inventory
Repetitive strain injuries are also very common among warehouse workers because of constant bending, twisting, and lifting, which stresses the spine. Over time, this can weaken the spine, increasing the risk of severe spinal cord injuries.
4. Healthcare Workers
Healthcare workers, especially those in nursing and emergency care, have a higher risk of spinal cord injuries. Frequently lifting and transferring patients, sometimes in emergencies, can strain the spine, leading to both acute injuries and long-term damage.
Apart from handling patients, healthcare workers are exposed to slips, trips, and falls in the hospital environment. Sudden movement or improper lifting of medical equipment can also contribute to spinal cord trauma.
Conclusion
The dangers in these professions cannot be fully removed. However, awareness and preventive action can make a big difference in reducing the risks. For those who suffer spinal cord injuries, getting proper support and resources, including compensation, can help in recovery.