Ohio Retail Workers Are at High Risk for Injuries in January

Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Explains Injuries During the Post-Holiday Surge

As the holiday shopping frenzy winds down and the new year begins, retailers often see a spike in worker injuries. January presents a unique set of challenges for individuals in the retail sector, leading to an increase in accidents and incidents. At the Monast Law Office, we understand the reasons for this increase and the complexities of Ohio workers’ compensation. Learn more about what to do if you’re an injured retail worker and how to file a claim for the support you deserve.

Factors Contributing to Retail Worker Injuries in January

AmTrust’s 2023 Retail Risk Report reveals that January emerges as the most critical period for workers' compensation injury claims. The study indicates a 25 percent increase in workers' compensation claims per $100,000 of a retailer's payroll in the U.S. during January. Several factors contribute to the rise in retail worker injuries during that month, such as:

• Post-holiday clean-up. After the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, retail stores often undergo extensive clean-up efforts, which often involve rearranging merchandise displays, handling returns, and managing excess inventory. The rush to restore order amidst the chaos can lead to accidents if proper safety protocols aren’t followed.
• Seasonal workers' departure. Many retailers hire seasonal employees to manage the holiday rush. Some of these workers may leave their positions afterward, resulting in a smaller workforce. This reduction can put more strain on remaining retail employees, increasing the risk of accidents due to fatigue and overexertion.
• Harsher weather conditions. January weather is often more challenging in Ohio than December. Slippery sidewalks, icy parking lots, and inclement conditions pose hazards for retail workers as they commute to and from work or perform outdoor tasks while on the job.
• Inventory management. Inventory management tasks such as stocktaking and replenishment are common in January. Handling heavy boxes, climbing ladders, and navigating crowded storage areas increases the likelihood of accidents if proper precautions aren’t taken.

Common Retail Worker Injuries 

Retail employees are exposed to various hazards in their day-to-day duties, causing injuries such as: 

• Slips, trips, and falls. Wet floors, cluttered aisles, and uneven floor surfaces can cause a worker to slip, trip, or fall. This type of accident leads to injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures.
• Musculoskeletal injuries. Retail jobs often demand heavy lifting, repetitive motions, and awkward postures, causing musculoskeletal injuries such as back strains, shoulder injuries, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Cuts and lacerations. Handling sharp objects such as box cutters and damaged merchandise causes cuts and lacerations, which may require medical attention and stitches.
• Struck-by or struck-against injuries. While navigating crowded store and warehouse environments, workers may be struck by falling merchandise or injured by colliding with or being struck against fixtures or equipment.

Workers' Compensation Benefits

People working in retail must understand that workers' compensation benefits are available to all employees, despite their employment status. Whether you're a full-time employee, part-time help, a seasonal hire, or even a student, you’re entitled to compensation for work-related injuries to cover: 

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Rehabilitation costs
• Disability 

Employers are legally obligated to carry workers' compensation insurance to make sure employees receive the support they need in case of an accident. Our Ohio workers' compensation legal team will guide you through the claims process, appeal denied cases, and pursue legal action if necessary. Each case is unique, but we help clients in all industries fight for the compensation they deserve to recover from their injuries and secure a better future.  

Did you know that more retail injuries occur in January than in any other month? Read our latest blog to learn the reasons and what workers’ compensation rights you have if you suffer a retail injury.