Office Relocation and Back Injuries

Businesses and companies may be occasionally forced to move locations or renovate offices, and may require their employees to assist in the relocation process. Although many businesses hire professional moving companies, some may ask employees to help move furniture or office items from one place to another.

If an employee attempts to lift an item that is awkward or heavy, he or she may risk back injury as a result. If a person suffers a serious back injury while performing a duty required by his or her employer, he or she may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages. If you have been injured in a work-related accident, contact the Philadelphia workers’ compensation attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 215-238-1130.

Preventing Back Injuries

Common methods for preventing back injuries include:

• Do not lift items that are clearly too heavy for you
• Use proper lifting techniques at all times
• Ask for assistance moving heavy items and work in teams for large objects
• Wear gloves and lifting belts for heavy objects
• Use dollies and push-carts when possible
• Use freight elevators rather than attempting to move large objects up and down stairs
• Consider hiring professional movers for extremely large items

Unfortunately, back injuries can happen even when lifting items that do not appear to be extremely heavy. Employees should be sure to move items in a careful manner and should be examined by a medical professional if any pain occurs.

Contact a Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you have been injured while performing the duties required by your employer, contact the Philadelphia workers’ compensation lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 215-238-1130 to discuss your legal rights.