While most people are familiar with the concept of workplace injuries, workplace illnesses are also a significant concern. Both types of workplace issues can result in serious consequences for workers, impacting their health, livelihood, and overall quality of life. But which is more common: workplace injury or workplace illness?
Understanding the distinction between these two is key to addressing the risks employees face.
A workplace injury is generally a physical injury that occurs in the workplace as a direct result of an accident or hazard. Examples include slip-and-fall accidents, machinery-related injuries, or lifting heavy objects that cause back strains. These injuries are typically immediate and visible, making them relatively easy to diagnose and treat. Workplace injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe injuries like fractures, burns, or traumatic brain injuries.
Workplace injuries are common in physically demanding jobs such as construction, manufacturing, and warehousing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2021, there were over 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries reported in private industry workplaces. This number highlights how frequently accidents happen on the job.
In contrast, workplace illnesses develop over time and may not be immediately apparent. These illnesses are often the result of prolonged exposure to harmful substances or repetitive stress, which may not cause symptoms until much later. Common workplace illnesses include respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis caused by inhaling toxic chemicals, and musculoskeletal disorders from repetitive motions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Occupational diseases, such as asbestosis or silicosis, are linked to long-term exposure to hazardous materials. Jobs in industries like mining, construction, and chemical manufacturing are particularly at risk for these types of illnesses. Additionally, healthcare workers are frequently exposed to biological hazards, including viruses and bacteria, making them more susceptible to developing workplace illnesses.
While workplace illnesses are less immediately noticeable than injuries, they can have long-term, debilitating effects on an individual’s health. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), around 50,000 people die each year from work-related illnesses in the U.S., a figure much higher than deaths from workplace injuries.
In terms of frequency, workplace injuries are more common than workplace illnesses. This is largely due to the immediate and tangible nature of injuries. The BLS data confirms that more injuries are reported annually compared to occupational diseases. However, this doesn’t mean that workplace illnesses should be overlooked. In fact, workplace illnesses may be underreported, as they often take time to develop, making it difficult for employees to link their condition directly to their job.
The main difference between workplace injuries and illnesses lies in how they develop and manifest. Workplace injuries are usually sudden, caused by accidents, and are often visible immediately. Workplace illnesses, on the other hand, are typically the result of long-term exposure to harmful conditions, and symptoms may not appear for months or even years.
Another key difference is the treatment process. Injuries are often treated immediately after they occur, whereas illnesses may require prolonged medical care and might not be diagnosed until much later. Both injuries and illnesses, however, can have lasting effects on an employee’s ability to work and earn a living.
Whether you’ve suffered an injury or developed an illness related to your workplace, it’s important to understand your rights. Workers’ compensation laws are designed to provide financial support for employees who are injured or become ill due to their job.
If you believe your injury or illness is work-related, we can help. Contact Shugarman & Mehring to discuss your situation.
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